André-Marie Ampère

Physics French 1775 – 1836 369 quotes

One of the founders of the science of classical electromagnetism, which he referred to as 'electrodynamics'.

Most quoted

"The most general law of electrodynamic action is that two elements of current attract or repel each other in the inverse ratio of the square of their distance, and in the direct ratio of the product of their lengths and of the sines of the angles which they make with the line joining them."

— from Théorie mathématique des phénomènes électrodynamiques, uniquement déduite de l'expérience, 1826

"The force between two current elements is proportional to the product of their lengths, to the product of the currents they carry, and to the sine of the angle between their directions, and inversely proportional to the square of the distance between them."

— from Mémoire sur la théorie mathématique des phénomènes électrodynamiques, uniquement déduite de l'expérience, 1826

"The facts are the only things that are certain in science, and the only way to arrive at truth is to observe them carefully and to deduce from them, by means of rigorous reasoning, the laws that govern them."

— from Essai sur la philosophie des sciences, ou Exposition analytique d'une classification naturelle de toutes les connaissances humaines

All quotes by André-Marie Ampère (369)

Every new discovery opens up new avenues for research.

General scientific discussion

I have dedicated my life to the study of nature's laws.

General correspondence

The greatest reward for a scientist is the joy of discovery.

General statement

We must always strive for greater precision in our measurements.

General scientific discussion

The universe is full of wonders waiting to be discovered.

General statement

I believe that science and religion can coexist.

General correspondence

My work is a testament to the power of human reason.

General correspondence

The pursuit of truth is a lifelong journey.

General statement

I hope that my contributions will inspire future generations of scientists.

Attributed, possibly a late-life reflection

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

General correspondence

The scientific method is our most powerful tool for unraveling the mysteries of the universe.

General statement

I have been so busy with my work that I have not had time to be a genius.

Attributed

Mathematics is the supreme judge; from its decisions there is no appeal.

Attributed

One day, I hope to be as famous as a cat.

Attributed

I am not a genius, I am just a curious man.

Attributed

I have done my best, and that is all I can do.

Attributed

Life is like riding a bicycle. To keep your balance, you must keep moving.

Attributed

I never think of the future. It comes soon enough.

Attributed

The difference between genius and stupidity is that genius has its limits.

Attributed

I am not afraid of death; I just don't want to be there when it happens.

Attributed