Who was Albert Einstein?
Albert Einstein (1879-1955) was a theoretical physicist born in Ulm, Germany. He is best known for developing the theory of relativity, which revolutionized our understanding of time, space, and gravity. His most famous equation, E=mc², expresses the equivalence of energy (E) and mass (m), with c representing the speed of light in a vacuum.
Einstein's groundbreaking contributions to physics earned him the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1921 for his explanation of the photoelectric effect, which was pivotal in establishing quantum theory. Beyond his scientific achievements, Einstein was a passionate advocate for civil rights, pacifism, and the use of science for the betterment of humanity.
In 1905, known as his "Annus Mirabilis" or miracle year, he published four seminal papers that transformed the field of physics. These papers addressed the photoelectric effect, Brownian motion, special relativity, and mass-energy equivalence. His work laid the foundation for modern physics and has had lasting impacts on cosmology and our understanding of the universe.
Einstein worked in various academic and research roles throughout his life, including at the Swiss Patent Office and later at prestigious institutions like the Institute for Advanced Study in Princeton, New Jersey. His legacy endures not only in the scientific community but also in popular culture, where his image and ideas remain synonymous with genius.