5 interesting facts about Erwin Schrödinger

Erwin Schrodinger (top row sixth from the left) poses with leading scientists at the Solvay Conference in 1927 (Image credit: Benjamin Couprie, Institut International de Physique Solvay, Brussels, Belgium)

1. Sanatorium study

His thesis for the Schrödinger equation was written while in a sanatorium, being treated for tuberculosis. Giving him grief for much of his life, it also provided extensive study time.

2. Friendly rivalry

Einstein was unable to accept the use of random acts to define science, such as in the Schrödinger’s cat experiment, and is famously quoted saying: “I can’t believe God plays dice.”

3. Inspiring others

Schrödinger inspired Watson and Crick, credited for their discovery of the structure of DNA. They both named his book, What is Life?, in creating their interest in cellular biology.

4. Man on the Moon

A Moon crater was named after him. Found on the far side of the Moon near the lunar south pole, the Schrödinger crater is the best-preserved impact basin of its kind.

5. Working through the Great War

While serving as an artillery officer with the Austro-Hungarian forces in World War I, Schrödinger still found the time to study papers written by Albert Einstein.

 


For more science and technology articles, pick up the latest copy of How It Works from all good retailers or from our website now. If you have a tablet or smartphone, you can also download the digital version onto your iOS or Android device. To make sure you never miss an issue of How It Works magazine, subscribe today!