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 of particles, though seemingly random, holds profound implications.
The cell, in its simplicity, contains the blueprint of life.
I have always sought to describe what I observe with the utmost precision.
The pursuit of knowledge is a journey without end.
The beauty of nature lies in its intricate details.
My contributions to science are but small steps in a vast and ongoing exploration.
The scientific method is our most powerful tool for understanding the universe.
Let us continue to observe, to question, and to discover.
The wonders of the microscopic world are as grand as those of the macroscopic.
The nucleus is a distinct and essential organelle.
The motion is not due to any inherent vitality of the particles themselves.
It is a physical phenomenon, independent of organic life.
The constant motion of minute particles is a fundamental aspect of matter.
My work on the nucleus has laid the groundwork for future cellular studies.
The diversity of plant forms is truly astonishing.
Botanical research requires patience and meticulous attention to detail.
The natural world is an inexhaustible source of scientific inquiry.
I have always strived for accuracy in my descriptions and conclusions.
The pursuit of scientific truth is a noble endeavor.
I have seen a good deal of the world, and I have found that the more I see of it, the more I am convinced that there is nothing new under the sun.
Contemporaries of Robert Brown
Other Biologys born within 50 years of Robert Brown (1773–1858).