February 16, 2010
Although A.A. Michelson is remembered primarily for the Michelson-Morley experiment, he, himself, regarded his attempt to observe the ether as a profound failure. Raised in a California mining camp, Michelson was a prodigy in experimental physics. Self educated in research, and working in the age of iron and steam, he founded the field of precision measurements by measuring the meter in terms of the wavelength of an atomic spectral line, thus creating the first natural physical standard. Michelson also invented Fourier transform spectroscopy, discovered the fine structure of hydrogen, provided the first experimental confirmation of Maxwellʼs kinetic theory, made the first measurement of the diameter of a star, and became the United Statesʼ first Nobel Laureate in science. In spite of these successes, Michelson was never reconciled to his failure to find the effect of the ether.
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Colloquia are held Tuesdays in Room 1410 at 4:00 pm (preceded by light refreshments at 3:30). If you have additional questions, please call 301-405-5946.