Alfred Werner
He developed the coordination theory of transition metal complexes, revolutionizing inorganic chemistry.
Most quoted
"Imagination is more important than knowledge. For knowledge is limited, whereas imagination embraces the entire world, stimulating progress, giving birth to evolution."
— from Attributed
"The existence of isomers, differing only in the spatial arrangement of their constituent atoms, provides strong evidence for the three-dimensional nature of molecules."
— from Habilitationsschrift, University of Zurich, 1893
"The primary valencies are those which are satisfied by the formation of ions, while the secondary valencies are satisfied by the formation of non-ionizable groups."
— from Neuere Anschauungen auf dem Gebiete der anorganischen Chemie, 1907
All quotes by Alfred Werner (414)
A joke in the lab: why did the ion go to therapy? It had too many attachments.
My theory stands not on sand, but on the rock of empirical fact.
The joy of discovery is sweeter than any accolade.
Education is igniting the flame of curiosity in young minds.
Complexes are not complicated; they are elegantly intertwined.
In the face of doubt, persevere; truth rewards the steadfast.
The Nobel is a milestone, not the journey's end.
Why fear the unknown when it holds such beauty?
A witty retort to a rival: Your theory has more holes than a sieve.
Chemistry teaches us that change is inevitable, adaptation essential.
The atom's core is a kingdom ruled by invisible forces.
Happiness is a well-balanced equation.
To innovate is to challenge the status quo with evidence.
In my final hours, I see the grand design of it all.
Science is poetry written in the language of numbers.
Letters to my wife: Your love is the catalyst for my greatest works.
The field of chemistry evolves; only the curious thrive.
Optical isomers: twins that mirror yet differ in essence.
Politics meddles where science illuminates.
A laugh in adversity: My beaker overflowed, much like my ideas.
Contemporaries of Alfred Werner
Other Chemistrys born within 50 years of Alfred Werner (1866–1919).