Scientist series: Richard Feynman

[science_spot]

DeadheadJen, this one is for you!  Richard Feynman is a reknowned American physicist.  If you have heard about my aversion to physics (and math), you will understand why I had neevr heard of this guy until Jen raved about him.  He has worked extensively on quantum mechanics, superfluidity, particle physics, and quantum electrodynamics.  His work on quantum electrodynamics (with others), earned him the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1965.

We worked on such high-profile projects, such as the development of the atomic bomb and investigation of the Challenger Space Shuttle disaster.  He also initiated the fields of quantum computing and nanotechnology.  Feynman also developed diagrams of subatomic particles that now bear his name (Feynman diagrams).  These accomplishments have contributed greatly to his popularity as a scientist both during and after his death in 1988.

Check out the Wikipedia link for extensive information about this incredible scientist, or the Feynman.com website dedicated to him.  You might be also interested in past posts about other scientists (check out the archives).  In retrospect, I should have had Jen write this post as a guest blogger, instead.  Jen, what would you add?  What is your most favorite thing about this man?

Tonya

The Science Spot (for moms)

It's Not Just About the Science (a blog about science at my house)

[deadheadjen]

Feb. 3, 2010 at 12:57 PM

I love that you did this! I would say that one of the major things that I love about my home skillet RF is that not only did he have an incredible sense of humor and subversiveness, but that he made physics accessible to non-physicists. He had a brilliant mind and a capacity to understand things so far beyond what any layperson could hope to understand, and yet he reveled in humor, irony and practical jokes.

I'd HIGHLY suggest that anyone interested in him read "Surely You're Joking, Mr. Feynman!" or "What Do You Care What Other People Think?: Further Adventures of a Curious Character".  These autobiographies are so compelling and humorous that you "forget" that you're reading about a physicist. Tonya, I'd really recommend either of these. They're quick reads and well worth it.

Anyway. He was all kinds of awesome. A total smart ass scientist with a great sense of humor. Sigh. I meant it when I said I'd have married him...

[science_spot]

Mar. 16, 2010 at 11:01 AM

lol Jen! 

Thanks for the extra input :)

(Original Poster)