Lecture by Robert Oppenheimer on Niels Bohr

Introduction

• Third annual university science lecture.
• Sponsored by the University and the Sigma Chi Society.
• Lecture focuses on Niels Bohr, a significant figure in the development of atomic theory.

Niels Bohr: Background and Contributions

Early Life

• Born in 1885 in Copenhagen.
• Came from a learned, humorous family; father was a renowned physiologist.
• Interested in the distinction between living and inorganic nature.

Education and Early Work

• Known as the "young philosopher" for his critical thinking.
• Studied the behavior of electrons in metals; critical of J.J. Thomson's work.
• Developed his early thesis on the oscillation of water jets.

Atomic Theory

• Integrated Rutherford's atomic model with Einstein's theories.
• Introduced the concept of quantum mechanics in atomic structure in 1913.
• Developed the principle of complementarity in quantum mechanics.

Later Life and Contributions

• Returned to Copenhagen as a professor in 1916.
• Founded the Institute of Theoretical Physics in 1920.
• Explored nuclear physics and contributed to understanding nuclear fission.

Bohr's Role in Development of Atomic Weapons

• Concerned with the implications of atomic weapons.
• Engaged with international scientific community for collaboration.
• Advocated for openness and cooperation with Soviet Union post-WWII.

Bohr's Influence and Philosophy

Complementarity

• Applied the concept of complementarity to broader social and ethical issues.
• Believed in balance between love (personal fulfillment) and justice (equality).

International Cooperation

• Created bonds with scientists across the globe.
• Advocated for free access to information and scientific collaboration.

Legacy

• Bohr's vision was for openness and international collaboration.
• Played a key role in establishing CERN and influencing the direction of scientific research.
• Passed away on November 18, 1962; left a legacy of scientific and political thought that emphasized cooperation and openness.