Max Karl Ernst Ludwig Planck (1848-1947)
In short, Max was the German theoretical physicist credited with being the originator of quantum theory, for which he won the 1918 Nobel Prize for Physics.
He was good friends with Albert Einstein. They played music together (when they should've been working).
Quantum theory describes the behaviour of atomic and sub-atomic particles.
In the late 1800's it became apparent that the laws of classical physics had limitations when trying to describe or predict physical events at a microscopic level. And so, in the early 1900's, quantum theory was born, and it revolutionised human understanding of how small particles behave.
Practical derivations of quantum theory include transistor radios, LASER'S, and ultra-precise clocks and thermometers. And teleportation (true story. QT is bizarre and we love it!).
Yes, the theories of quanta can be mind-altering, counter-intuitive and fascinating (you can change the behaviour of an electron simply by observing it. This can work on humans too:), so we'll have a look at some of it's quirkier observations and predictions in posts to come.
Until then, just remember, you can walk through a wall if you try hard enough (QT predicts this to be possible in an infinite universe, coz at some point all the oscillating particles of both bodies must line up), but you may struggle to maintain a healthy relationship. (And you may have to live longer than 85yrs. Unless you jag it:)
Big tip of the hat to Max Planck. Good job :)
References:
1. wikipedia.com
2. dsc.discovery.com
3. bbc.co.uk/science
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