Ernest Rutherford

Physics New Zealander-British 1871 – 1937 427 quotes

Discovered the atomic nucleus and proton

Quotes by Ernest Rutherford

I am very much interested in the structure of the atom.

Letter to J.J. Thomson 1906

I have been working very hard to unravel the mysteries of radioactivity.

Letter to his father 1902

I am a simple man, but I have a great love for science.

Attributed

I am very proud of the work that has been done in my laboratory.

Speech 1925

I believe that the atom is a very complex structure.

Lecture notes 1910

I am always looking for new problems to solve.

Letter to a friend 1915

I am very grateful for the support that I have received from my colleagues.

Speech 1930

I have no patience with people who do not work hard.

Attributed

I am very fortunate to have such brilliant students.

Letter to a university official 1928

I am always striving to improve my understanding of the natural world.

Diary entry 1907

I am very excited about the possibilities that lie ahead for science.

Public statement 1935

I have always believed that experimental evidence is the most important thing in science.

Lecture 1912

I am very fond of my family, and I miss them greatly.

Letter to his wife 1899

I am convinced that there is still much to learn about the atom.

Scientific paper 1920

I am not interested in theoretical physics, I am interested in experimental physics.

Attributed

I have a great deal of respect for the work of my predecessors.

Letter to a historian of science 1901

I am determined to push the boundaries of human knowledge.

Diary entry 1909

I am a firm believer in the power of collaboration.

Speech 1922

I am always encouraging my students to think for themselves.

Letter to a parent 1927

I am very grateful for the opportunities that I have been given.

Acceptance speech 1932