Tuesday, May 17, 2011

My favourite quote about thermodynamics

A theory is the more impressive the greater the simplicity of its premises, the more different kinds of things it relates, and the more extended its area of applicability. Therefore the deep impression that classical thermodynamics made upon me. It is the only physical theory of universal content which I am convinced will never be overthrown, within the framework of applicability of its basic concepts.
Albert Einstein
Thermodynamics is a great source of both profound and humorous quotes. Many are collected at Wikiquote and on a site due to Franco Nori.

Some morbid but fascinating discussion about the mental health and suicides of many famous pioneers of thermodynamics and statistical mechanics are on a somewhat strange site Encyclopedia of Human Thermodynamics.

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