Ahmed Zewail
He won the Nobel Prize for his pioneering work in femtochemistry, observing chemical reactions in real time.
Most quoted
"The difference between a good scientist and a great scientist is that the great one knows when to stop looking for the perfect answer and just publish the darn thing."
— from Advice to Students
"My colleagues sometimes ask why I spend so much time on such tiny things. I tell them, 'Because the big things are just collections of tiny things acting strangely.'"
— from Informal Conversation
"Some people see a glass half empty, others see it half full. I see it as a container with a certain volume of liquid, and I want to know its chemical composition."
— from Informal Chat
All quotes by Ahmed Zewail (419)
The pursuit of truth is the highest calling of humanity.
Science is not just a career; it's a way of life, a constant quest for understanding the universe.
My dear Noha, your love and support are the bedrock of my achievements. Without you, none of this would be possible.
The beauty of femtochemistry lies in its ability to witness the dance of atoms in real-time, to truly see the making and breaking of bonds.
To my children, remember that curiosity is your greatest asset. Never stop asking 'why'.
The Nobel Prize is a great honor, but the true reward is the joy of discovery itself.
Egypt, my homeland, holds a special place in my heart. I dream of a future where science flourishes there.
The challenges are immense, but so is the potential. We must persevere.
I often find solace in the quiet moments, reflecting on the vastness of the universe and our small place within it.
Education is the key to unlocking human potential. We must invest in our youth.
My early days in America were filled with both excitement and apprehension, but the pursuit of knowledge always drove me forward.
To my mentors, thank you for guiding me, for believing in me even when I doubted myself.
The scientific method is a powerful tool, but intuition and creativity are equally vital.
I miss the warmth of family gatherings, the laughter and shared stories.
The future of science lies in interdisciplinary collaboration. We must break down the silos.
Every experiment, even the 'failed' ones, teaches us something valuable.
The responsibility that comes with scientific discovery is immense. We must use our knowledge wisely.
To my students, never be afraid to challenge conventional wisdom. That's where true breakthroughs happen.
The beauty of the natural world is an endless source of inspiration for me.
I believe in the power of dialogue and understanding to bridge cultural divides.
Contemporaries of Ahmed Zewail
Other Chemistrys born within 50 years of Ahmed Zewail (1946–2016).