Saturday, April 6, 2013

Niels Bohr (1885-1962)


Sham S. Misri
Niels Bohr was a Danish physicist. He was one of the foremost scientists in modern physics. He was professor of theoretical physics at the University of Copenhagen. He was awarded the Nobel Prize in 1922 for his work on atomic structure and the hydrogen atom. Bohr explained that electrons move in restricted orbits around the atom's nucleus. He explained how the atom emits and absorbs energy. He combined the quantum theory with this concept of atomic structure. He was also known for his humorous arguments with Albert Einstein.

The Bohr–Einstein debates were a series of public disputes about quantum mechanics between Albert Einstein and Niels Bohr. They were two of its founders.

An account of them has been written by Bohr in an article titled "Discussions with Einstein on Problems in Atomic Physics".

Despite their differences of opinion regarding quantum mechanics, Bohr and Einstein had a mutual admiration that was to last the rest of their lives. Einstein and Bohr, always led by merciless war on the nature of quantum theory based on probability.

This anecdote, best describes their relationship:

Albert Einstein and Niels Bohr were out hiking one day when they came across a bear. Immediately, Niels Borh began to change from his boots to his running shoes.

“What are you doing Niels?” Exclaimed the surprised Einstein. “Certainly you cannot outrun a bear!”

Niels Borh replied “No, Albert, I only need to outrun you...”

Those who accept Einstein settings, talking to Einstein’s are dressing running shoes. But modern science accepts that the Borh still ran faster.

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