10 of the greatest achievements of Physics of all time

10 of the greatest achievements of Physics of all time

Some discoveries have the ability to shock us and even break our preconceived notions. Such revolutionary inventions, not only serve as the basis for others to follow but also defines the overall progress we as humans have made to date. It comes as no surprise that a handful of scientists and researchers, with their inquisitiveness, came forward to observe and undertake some testing that would act as the greatest achievements in the field of sciences.

Here’s our list of some of the greatest achievements made in the world of physics to date:

1. Gravity

Sir Isaac Newton, one of the top ten physics geniuses who changed the way we perceive the world, discovered Gravity in the 17th century. This invention completely changed the way people used to see the world before it. The world-famous mathematician and physicist to ever descend on earth, Newton made great contributions to modern science. After observing a falling apple from a tree, he went to look for answers to many related questions. Without a doubt, the discovery of gravity is one of the greatest achievements of the physics world to date. The forces of nature, since then have helped fuel other important discoveries including Kepler’s astronomical observations as well.

Also Read Top 10 Physics Geniuses Who Changed the Way We Perceive the World

2.The Theory of Relativity

The infamous theory of relativity, created by Albert Einstein during the early 1900s has been one of the greatest scientific discoveries ever. It can be categorized into two major sections including General relativity and Special relativity. While general relativity is mathematically tougher than special relativity which, on the other hand, acts as the foundation of other modern theories today. The formula for the theory of relativity, e=mc2 has been the bedrock of many other inventions. One part of the theory states that the speed of light remains the same. It was finally published in 1916.

3. Photoelectric Effect

Image: Britannica

Next up on the list of the greatest physics achievements ever is the Photoelectric effect. It is the phenomenon where electrically charged particles are released from or within a particular material after absorbing electromagnetic radiation. This effect is usually referred to as the ejection of electrons when light falls on a metallic surface. Due to the associated questions, the photoelectric effect has significantly served as the cornerstone in numerous other inventions. It was only in 1905 when Albert Einstein resolved a range of doubts related to the nature of light. Today, the photoelectric effect is majorly used in astrophysics and the making of practical devices.

4. Quantum Teleportation

Quantum Teleportation is a pivotal scientific discovery that has shaped the modern scientific world into what it is today. Commonly referred to as Frankenstein technology, teleportation has been an inspiration for many. It was a moment of immense pride when the scientists in 2004, successfully teleported atoms for the first time. Quantum teleportation is defined as the movement of the quantum state of an atom, matter, or energy from one point to another without passing over any physical space between them. This particular discovery is one of the main reasons that we today have superfast computers. Energy teleportation, state transportation, and particle teleportation are the three kinds of proposed teleportation.

5. Electromagnetic Induction

Faraday’s world-changing electromagnetic induction discovery has immensely contributed to the field of science. After experimenting with both the sectors of magnetism and electricity for nearly ten years, this physicist-cum-experimentalist succeeded in his endeavor in the year 1831. Using two coils of wire wound circling opposite side of a soft iron ring, Faraday finally proved that a magnet had the capability of inducing electricity. His observations included a momentary deflection of the compass needle followed by its immediate return to the starting point. This impressive invention would later serve as the basis for many other experiments to follow.

6. The Higgs Boson

An essential part of the Standard Model of physics, the Higgs Boson particle sums up to be an amazing discovery. According to this, an invisible energy field, named the Higgs field is present throughout the whole universe. The Higgs Boson particles are believed to be the most important element of the world; without which nothing would exist. It is for this reason that it is also referred to as the God Particle. The Higgs Boson particle diffuses other particles with mass and makes huge waves in the universe. This breathtaking discovery has opened a world of possibilities for other researchers to follow.

7. X-Ray

How would be the world without any x-rays? Quite difficult to imagine. Thanks to Wilhelm Conrad Rontgen, a physicist who is believed to be the first person ever to observe the x-rays. One of the top inventions that changed our lives and were actually discovered by accident, the x-ray was indeed groundbreaking. This significant scientific discovery took place on November 8, 1895. Since then, it has been groundbreaking and has been immensely utilized in a variety of fields, especially medicine. A fun fact about the x-ray invention is that it was totally accidental! While experimenting with cathode rays in his laboratory in Germany, Wilhelm began to notice a glow originating from a chemically coated screen. Later, after observing other objects, he finally discovered x-rays.

8. Radioactivity

Next up on our list of the greatest achievements of the physics world is Radioactivity. In 1896, a French physicist, Henri Becquerel discovered radioactivity in uranium. This particular invention came as a shock to a number of scientists who carried distinct ideas about the atomic structure. Radioactivity proved that the atom was neither immutable nor indivisible. Further, it also showed that an atom possessed the capability of forming as well as emitting enormous amounts of energy. The world-famous discovery of radioactivity served as the foundation for a number of inventions in the scientific field.

9. Nuclear Reactor

Ever since the initiation of using nuclear power in the industrial sector as a means to generate energy, the role of nuclear energy has become more justified over the years. Fundamental reactor designs have immensely advanced in maximizing efficiency as well safety, on the basis of the learnings from the past designs. Four nuclear reactors have been made since 1895. Looking past such discoveries, we as humans feel a great sense of pride. These inventions have already shaped history and are greatly contributing to giving a ray of hope to the future.

10. Ohm’s Law

Ohm’s Law, discovered by the famous German physicist, George Simon Ohm, states that the flow of current from a conductor is directly proportional to the potential difference that is the voltage and is inversely proportional to the resistance. This discovery made him a mathematics professor at the Jesuits’ College, Cologne in 1817, from where he later resigned. Ohm’s work has been a great influencer in making and testing the theories and applications of the current electricity. Today, ‘ohm’ is a physical measuring unit of electrical resistance.

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