It is difficult to say with certainty what would have happened if historical figures like Einstein and Newton were born in different time periods. Scientific discoveries are often the result of a complex interplay of various factors, including the state of knowledge and technology available at the time, the intellectual climate, and the specific genius and insights of individual scientists.
That being said, both Newton and Einstein made groundbreaking contributions to physics that revolutionized our understanding of the universe. If they were born in different eras, it is possible that they would have made significant discoveries in their respective fields, albeit with potentially different specifics.
Newton, who was born in 1643, developed the laws of motion and universal gravitation, which formed the basis for classical mechanics. His work profoundly influenced the scientific community and laid the groundwork for centuries of research and technological advancements. If he were born in Einstein's time (late 19th century and early 20th century), he might have encountered new experimental evidence and mathematical tools that could have led him to develop some of the concepts and theories that Einstein is famous for.
Einstein, born in 1879, is known for his theory of relativity, which revolutionized our understanding of space, time, and gravity. If he were born in Newton's time (17th century), he might not have had access to the advanced mathematical and scientific knowledge that paved the way for his discoveries. However, Einstein's unique way of thinking and his ability to question conventional wisdom might have still led him to make significant contributions in his era.
It's important to note that the specific circumstances, influences, and opportunities available to each scientist played a crucial role in their respective discoveries. If their timelines were swapped, it is likely that their intellectual journeys and specific contributions would have been different. Nonetheless, both Newton and Einstein possessed extraordinary intellect and creativity, so they would likely have made notable contributions to the field of physics in any time period.