Robert Brown
A botanist who discovered the nucleus in plant cells and described Brownian motion, the random movement of particles in a fluid.
Most quoted
"I have, however, been enabled to satisfy myself that the particles or molecules of the pollen of plants, and indeed of many other organic as well as inorganic bodies, when suspended in water, are in a state of constant and rapid oscillatory motion."
— from A Brief Account of Microscopical Observations Made in the Months of June, July, and August, 1827, on the Particles Contained in the Pollen of Plants; and on the General Existence of Active Molecules in Organic and Inorganic Bodies., 1827
"This motion was such as to satisfy me, after frequently repeated observation, that it was not caused either by currents in the fluid, or by its gradual evaporation, but belonged to the particle itself."
— from A Brief Account of Microscopical Observations Made in the Months of June, July, and August, 1827, on the Particles Contained in the Pollen of Plants; and on the General Existence of Active Molecules in Organic and Inorganic Bodies., 1827
"This motion was such as to satisfy me, after frequently repeated observation, that it arose neither from currents in the fluid, nor from its gradual evaporation, but belonged to the particle itself."
— from A Brief Account of Microscopical Observations Made in the Months of June, July, and August, 1827, on the Particles Contained in the Pollen of Plants; and on the General Existence of Active Molecules in Organic and Inorganic Bodies, 1827
All quotes by Robert Brown (343)
The motion is not due to any vital principle, but is a general property of matter.
The existence of this motion in inorganic substances, such as finely powdered glass, coal, and metals, proves that it is not a phenomenon peculiar to living matter.
The motion is more rapid in smaller particles and in less viscous fluids.
The 'Brownian motion' is a fundamental phenomenon in physics and biology.
The structure of the ovulum in Cycadeae and Coniferae, and its analogy with that of other plants.
The ovulum is not a mere seed, but a complex organ with a distinct structure.
The importance of careful and precise observation in botanical research.
The classification of plants must be founded on natural affinities, not on artificial characters.
The study of microscopic structures is essential for understanding plant physiology.
The importance of comparative anatomy in understanding evolutionary relationships.
The careful dissection and examination of plant parts under the microscope reveal hidden complexities.
The pursuit of knowledge requires meticulous attention to detail.
The natural system of classification aims to group plants according to their true relationships.
The study of pollen grains reveals important insights into plant reproduction.
The cell is the fundamental unit of life.
The nucleus plays a crucial role in the life of the cell.
The observation of minute phenomena can lead to profound discoveries.
The scientific method relies on empirical evidence and rigorous testing.
The boundaries between organic and inorganic matter are not always clear-cut.
The universality of certain natural laws extends beyond the realm of living organisms.
Contemporaries of Robert Brown
Other Biologys born within 50 years of Robert Brown (1773–1858).