Before Albert Einstein became known as one of the most influential physicists of all time, he was a relatively unknown patent examiner working at the Swiss Patent Office in Bern. This period is often referred to as Einstein's "miracle year" because it was during this time, in 1905, that he published four groundbreaking scientific papers that revolutionized physics and established his reputation.
The four papers published by Einstein in 1905 are as follows:
"On a Heuristic Viewpoint Concerning the Production and Transformation of Light" introduced the concept of quanta of light energy, now known as photons, and laid the foundation for the field of quantum mechanics.
"On the Motion of Small Particles Suspended in a Stationary Liquid, as Required by the Molecular Kinetic Theory of Heat" presented a mathematical model that explained the erratic motion of particles suspended in a fluid, known as Brownian motion, providing evidence for the existence of atoms.
"On the Electrodynamics of Moving Bodies" introduced the theory of special relativity, challenging the prevailing notion of absolute space and time and revolutionizing our understanding of the behavior of objects moving at high speeds.
"Does the Inertia of a Body Depend Upon Its Energy Content?" proposed the famous equation E=mc², which showed the equivalence of energy (E) and mass (m) and laid the groundwork for the development of nuclear energy.
These papers showcased Einstein's extraordinary intellectual prowess and creativity. Their significance and impact on physics were gradually recognized, propelling Einstein to fame and establishing his position as one of the most brilliant scientists in history.