Augustin-Jean Fresnel

Physics France 1788 – 1827 102 quotes

French physicist who established the transverse nature of light waves, contributing to the development of the Fresnel lens.

Quotes by Augustin-Jean Fresnel

The experimental verification of a theory is its ultimate test.

Correspondence 1826

My health is failing, but my passion for science remains undiminished.

Letter to Arago 1827

The study of light has been the guiding star of my life.

Last words (attributed) 1827

The phenomena of diffraction, which at first seemed to contradict the undulatory theory, are in fact its strongest confirmation.

Mémoire sur la diffraction de la lumière 1819

To understand nature, one must listen to its language, which is mathematics.

Correspondence 1820

The greatest discoveries are often made by those who are willing to question the obvious.

Correspondence 1821

I have always preferred the simple explanation to the complicated one, provided it explains all the facts.

Correspondence 1822

The pursuit of knowledge is a noble endeavor, even if it leads to unexpected conclusions.

Correspondence 1823

The universe is full of wonders, and science is the key to unlocking them.

Correspondence 1824

My work is not yet finished, but I hope it will serve as a foundation for future generations.

Letter to Arago 1827

The phenomena of light are so varied and complex that they require a theory of great generality.

Mémoire sur la diffraction de la lumière 1818

The most important thing in science is not to be right, but to be open to new ideas.

Correspondence 1820

I have always been driven by a desire to understand the fundamental laws of nature.

Correspondence 1821

The path to scientific truth is often arduous, but the rewards are immense.

Correspondence 1822

The more we learn about the universe, the more we realize how much more there is to learn.

Correspondence 1823

I have dedicated my life to science, and I have no regrets.

Letter to Arago 1827

The wave theory of light provides a unified explanation for a vast range of optical phenomena.

Mémoire sur la diffraction de la lumière 1819

The pursuit of knowledge is a journey, not a destination.

Correspondence 1820

I have always believed that the truth will ultimately prevail.

Correspondence 1821

The greatest challenge in science is to simplify complex phenomena without losing their essence.

Correspondence 1822