Max Born

Date of Birth: December 11, 1882

Zodiac Sign: Sagittarius

Date of Death: January 5, 1970

Biography

Max Born was a renowned German-Jewish physicist and mathematician, instrumental in the development of quantum mechanics. Born on December 11, 1882, in Breslau, Germany (now Wrocław, Poland), he exhibited an early aptitude for mathematics and science. After studying at the University of Göttingen, he made significant contributions to the field of quantum mechanics, particularly in the statistical interpretation of the wave function, which earned him the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1954. Born’s work laid the foundation for the development of numerous technologies and theories in modern physics. He collaborated with several prominent scientists, including Werner Heisenberg and Erwin Schrödinger, and mentored many future Nobel laureates. Throughout his career, he published numerous papers and books, helping to disseminate complex scientific ideas to a broader audience. Despite facing persecution due to his Jewish heritage during the rise of the Nazi regime, Born continued his academic work in exile, moving to the United Kingdom where he became a professor at the University of Edinburgh. His legacy endures in the realms of physics and mathematics, influencing countless scholars and researchers. Max Born passed away on January 5, 1970, in Göttingen, West Germany, leaving behind a profound scientific legacy.

5 Interesting Facts about Max Born

1. Max Born was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1954 for his fundamental research in quantum mechanics, specifically for his statistical interpretation of the wave function.

2. He was a close collaborator with several other key figures in the development of quantum mechanics, including Werner Heisenberg and Niels Bohr.

3. Born’s granddaughter, Olivia Newton-John, became a famous singer and actress, best known for her role in the film “Grease.”

4. He was one of the signatories of the Russell-Einstein Manifesto in 1955, which called for the peaceful resolution of international conflicts and the reduction of nuclear weapons.

5. Born’s work extended beyond physics; he made significant contributions to the philosophy of science and was known for his clear and insightful writing on the subject.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Max Born

1. “I am now convinced that theoretical physics is actually philosophy.”

2. “The belief that there is only one truth, and that oneself is in possession of it, is the root of all evil in the world.”

3. “Intellect distinguishes between the possible and the impossible; reason distinguishes between the sensible and the senseless. Even the possible can be senseless.”

4. “Science is not formal logic—it needs the free play of intuition for its action.”

5. “My attitude towards science is that of the fundamental physicist. I am interested in the structure of matter.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Max Born’s highest net worth is not well-documented, as his era and profession did not typically involve the accumulation of wealth in the way modern celebrities or business moguls might. His contributions were more academic and intellectual, garnering esteem and recognition rather than financial wealth.

Children

Max Born and his wife, Hedwig Ehrenberg, had three children: 1. Irene Born, who became a biologist. 2. Gritli Born, who pursued a career in academia. 3. Gustav Born, who became a distinguished pharmacologist.