J. J. Thomson
Discovered the electron and proposed the first model of the atom.
Most quoted
"As the cathode rays carry a charge of negative electricity, are deflected by an electrostatic force as if they were negatively electrified, and are acted on by a magnetic force in just the way in which this force would act on a negatively electrified body moving along the path of these rays, I can see no escape from the conclusion that they are charges of negative electricity carried by particles of matter."
— from Cathode Rays, 1897
"We have, in the cathode rays, matter in a new state, a state in which the subdivision of matter is carried very much further than in the ordinary gaseous state: a state in which all matter—that is, matter derived from different sources such as hydrogen, oxygen, etc.—is of one and the same kind; this matter being the substance from which all the chemical elements are built up."
— from Philosophical Magazine, 1897
"We have in the cathode rays matter in a new state, a state in which the subdivision of matter is carried very much further than in the ordinary gaseous state: a state in which all matter—that is, matter derived from different sources such as hydrogen, oxygen, etc.—is of one and the same kind; this matter being the substance from which all the chemical elements are built up."
— from Cathode Rays, 1897
All quotes by J. J. Thomson (395)
The positive rays are streams of positively charged particles.
Curiosity is the engine of achievement.
I never made a discovery by accident.
The structure of the atom is electrical in origin.
Persistence in research is key to success.
The electron theory explains many phenomena.
Science is built upon the work of predecessors.
Humor in science lightens the load.
The canal rays confirm the existence of positive ions.
Reflection on failures teaches more than successes.
Electricity and matter are intimately connected.
The joy of discovery is unparalleled.
Isotopes are varieties of the same element.
Balance work and life, but lean towards work.
The deflection of rays by magnetic fields proves their particulate nature.
Wit in conversation makes science approachable.
The meaning of life is in the pursuit of knowledge.
Gases conduct electricity when ionized.
On my deathbed, I regret not one experiment.
Collaboration accelerates discovery.
Contemporaries of J. J. Thomson
Other Physicss born within 50 years of J. J. Thomson (1856–1940).