Irving Langmuir

Chemistry United States 1881 – 1957 98 quotes

He advanced plasma physics and surface science, earning a Nobel for chemical reactions on surfaces.

Quotes by Irving Langmuir

The isotherm equation I derived describes adsorption equilibrium perfectly.

Major Work 1916

Life is too short to waste on trivial pursuits; focus on what advances knowledge.

Personal Note 1950

Collaboration in science multiplies the power of individual minds.

Speech 1922

The plasma state of matter is as fundamental as solid, liquid, or gas.

Lecture 1928

Innovation comes from questioning the status quo.

Interview 1945

In my experiments with high vacuum, I learned that purity is paramount.

Lab Notes 1912

The joy of discovery is the true reward of the scientist.

Letter 1938

Weather control is not science fiction but a frontier we must approach cautiously.

Article 1947

Persistence in the face of failure defines the scientific temperament.

Speech 1925

The electron's behavior at surfaces reveals nature's deepest secrets.

Major Work 1930

Humor in the lab: Why did the chemist break up? There was no chemistry.

Anecdote 1940

Education should foster curiosity, not rote memorization.

Correspondence 1918

My work on monolayers opened new vistas in biochemistry.

Lecture 1935

Reflecting on life, science has given me purpose beyond measure.

Personal Reflection 1952

The Nobel Prize is an honor, but the real prize is the work itself.

Nobel Acceptance 1932

In politics of science funding, truth must prevail over expediency.

Interview 1948

A witty comeback to a skeptic: Your doubt is the fuel for my proof.

Anecdote 1920

Key to success: Experiment boldly, analyze rigorously.

Advice Letter 1910

From my thesis: The mobility of ions in gases is a profound phenomenon.

Thesis Excerpt 1906

Life's meaning? To contribute to humanity's understanding of the universe.

Personal Essay 1950