Richard P. Feynman

Date of Birth: May 11, 1918

Zodiac Sign: Taurus

Date of Death: February 15, 1988

Biography

Richard Phillips Feynman was an American theoretical physicist, known for his work in the path integral formulation of quantum mechanics, the theory of quantum electrodynamics, and the physics of the superfluidity of supercooled liquid helium. He was born in Queens, New York City, and exhibited a keen interest in science from a young age. Feynman completed his Ph.D. at Princeton University, where he worked on the Manhattan Project during World War II, contributing to the development of the atomic bomb. After the war, Feynman held a professorship at Cornell University and later at the California Institute of Technology (Caltech), where he made significant contributions to the field of quantum mechanics. He was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1965, along with Julian Schwinger and Sin-Itiro Tomonaga, for their fundamental work in quantum electrodynamics. Feynman was also renowned for his ability to communicate complex scientific concepts to the public and his engaging teaching style. His series of lectures at Caltech, known as “The Feynman Lectures on Physics,” remains a popular and influential resource for physics students worldwide. He was also a member of the Rogers Commission, which investigated the Space Shuttle Challenger disaster. Feynman had a vibrant personality, known for his curiosity, wit, and diverse interests, including playing the bongo drums, safe-cracking, and painting. He passed away in 1988 after a battle with cancer but left behind a legacy of scientific innovation and inspiration.

5 Interesting Facts about Richard P. Feynman

1. Feynman was known for his involvement in the development of the atomic bomb during World War II as part of the Manhattan Project.

2. He won the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1965 for his contributions to quantum electrodynamics.

3. Feynman had a talent for breaking safes, which he demonstrated by opening security safes at Los Alamos during the Manhattan Project.

4. He was an accomplished musician and enjoyed playing the bongo drums.

5. Feynman was a renowned educator, and his “Feynman Lectures on Physics” are still considered one of the best sets of physics lectures ever written.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Richard P. Feynman

1. “I would rather have questions that can’t be answered than answers that can’t be questioned.”

2. “The first principle is that you must not fool yourself, and you are the easiest person to fool.”

3. “Physics is like sex: sure, it may give some practical results, but that’s not why we do it.”

4. “I think I can safely say that nobody understands quantum mechanics.”

5. “What I cannot create, I do not understand.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

At the peak of his career, Richard Feynman’s net worth was estimated to be around $10 million, largely from his salary as a professor, his Nobel Prize winnings, and his published works.