Glenn T. Seaborg
He was a leading figure in the discovery and isolation of ten transuranium elements.
Most quoted
"Our understanding of the universe is constantly evolving. What we consider truth today may be refined or even overturned tomorrow. This is the beauty and power of scientific inquiry."
— from Various interviews and writings
"Plutonium is so unusual as to approach the unbelievable. Under some conditions it can be nearly as hard and brittle as glass; under others, as soft and plastic as lead."
— from Technical Report, 1948
"The greatest challenge for humanity is to use its scientific knowledge wisely, for the betterment of all, and to ensure the survival and flourishing of life on Earth."
— from Various interviews and writings
All quotes by Glenn T. Seaborg (396)
The pursuit of scientific truth is a noble endeavor, contributing to the intellectual and material well-being of humanity.
The future of science is in the hands of the young. I'm just here to make sure they don't blow themselves up.
Some people think I'm a nuclear physicist. I'm just a chemist who got lucky with a neutron.
If you're not making mistakes, you're not trying hard enough. Or you're not doing anything at all.
The best way to predict the future is to invent it. And sometimes, accidentally discover a new element while you're at it.
I've been called many things, but 'boring' was never one of them. Unless you're talking about the periodic table, then maybe.
The only thing more difficult than discovering a new element is getting people to pronounce its name correctly.
My wife says I spend more time with my elements than with her. I tell her the elements don't talk back as much.
Science is a lot like detective work, except the criminals are atoms and they're much harder to interrogate.
They say necessity is the mother of invention. In my case, it was more like curiosity and a very powerful accelerator.
I'm not saying I'm a genius, but I did manage to rearrange the periodic table. And it stuck.
The biggest challenge in science isn't finding the answers, it's asking the right questions. And then convincing your colleagues you're not crazy.
Some people collect stamps, I collect elements. Mine are a bit more radioactive, though.
The only thing constant in science is change. And the occasional explosion.
I've always believed in pushing the boundaries. Sometimes, literally, with a particle accelerator.
My advice to young scientists: don't be afraid to break things. That's how you learn how they work.
The universe is full of surprises. Especially when you're trying to create something that doesn't naturally exist.
They say I have a Nobel Prize. I just call it a really fancy paperweight.
If at first you don't succeed, try, try again. And then maybe try a bigger cyclotron.
The most exciting phrase to hear in science, the one that heralds new discoveries, is not 'Eureka!' but 'That's funny...'
Contemporaries of Glenn T. Seaborg
Other Chemistrys born within 50 years of Glenn T. Seaborg (1912–1999).