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)
I have been much struck with the fact that in all the plants I have examined, the pollen grains, when suspended in water, exhibit a rapid oscillatory motion.
This motion, which I have termed 'Brownian motion,' is not due to currents in the fluid, nor to any vital action of the pollen grains.
The particles are in a state of perpetual agitation.
The nucleus appears to be an essential part of the living cell.
My observations on the motion of pollen grains have led me to believe that it is a general property of minute particles suspended in a fluid.
The discovery of the nucleus was a significant step in understanding the structure of the cell.
The movement is entirely independent of the nature of the substance.
It is a phenomenon of great interest, and one that deserves further investigation.
The nucleus is not merely an accidental inclusion, but a fundamental component.
The constant agitation of these particles is a testament to the unseen forces at play.
My botanical explorations have revealed a remarkable diversity of plant life.
The classification of plants is a complex but rewarding endeavor.
Every plant tells a story of adaptation and survival.
The intricate details of plant anatomy are a source of endless fascination.
To understand life, we must first understand its fundamental units.
The microscope has opened up a new world of discovery.
Science progresses through careful observation and rigorous experimentation.
The natural world is full of wonders, waiting to be unveiled.
My work has been driven by a deep curiosity about the mechanisms of life.
The study of botany is not merely about naming plants, but understanding their very essence.
Contemporaries of Robert Brown
Other Biologys born within 50 years of Robert Brown (1773–1858).