Determining the "greatest" physicist among Isaac Newton, Albert Einstein, and Stephen Hawking is a subjective matter and depends on various factors such as their contributions, impact on the field, and the context in which their work is evaluated. Each of these physicists made groundbreaking contributions to our understanding of the universe in different ways and during different eras. Here's a brief overview of their achievements:
Isaac Newton (1643-1727): Newton is considered one of the most influential scientists in history. He developed the laws of motion and the universal law of gravitation, which laid the foundation for classical mechanics and our understanding of the physical world. Newton's work revolutionized the field of physics and provided a framework for explaining the motion of objects on Earth and in space.
Albert Einstein (1879-1955): Einstein's theories of special and general relativity transformed our understanding of space, time, and gravity. He proposed the famous equation E=mc², which established the equivalence of energy and mass. Einstein's theories resolved long-standing discrepancies in physics and introduced revolutionary concepts like time dilation, the bending of light, and the curvature of spacetime.
Stephen Hawking (1942-2018): Hawking was a theoretical physicist known for his work on black holes, cosmology, and the nature of the universe. His groundbreaking contributions include the discovery that black holes emit radiation, known as "Hawking radiation." He also explored the concept of a singularity at the beginning of the universe, coining the term "Big Bang." Hawking's work combined general relativity and quantum mechanics, pushing the boundaries of our understanding of the cosmos.
It is challenging to compare these physicists directly, as their work spans different areas and time periods. Their contributions have had a profound impact on physics and continue to shape our understanding of the universe. Each physicist made unique and significant contributions within their respective contexts, and their collective efforts have greatly advanced our understanding of the laws governing the natural world.
Ultimately, the question of the "greatest" physicist is subjective and can vary depending on personal perspectives and the criteria used for evaluation. It is more appropriate to recognize and appreciate the immense contributions of all three physicists and their lasting influence on the field of physics.