Meet the Greatest Physicists Who Inspired Me: David Griffiths, Neil Ashcroft, and Hendrik Lorentz

David Griffiths: My Favorite Textbook Author

Yes, David Griffiths is my favorite physicist. His Introduction to Electrodynamics textbook was my go-to resource throughout my undergraduate years. The clarity and depth of his explanations have made a significant impact on my understanding of the subject, and I continue to refer back to this invaluable resource even after many years.

Professor Neil Ashcroft: A Great Teacher and Advisor

Professor Neil Ashcroft was both my advisor and professor at Cornell, teaching me Analytical Mechanics and Solid State Physics. His Introduction to Solid State Physics (Ashcroft and Mermin, Harcourt Publishing, 1976) is widely regarded as a seminal text in the field. What stands out about Neil is not only his academic prowess but also his dedication to teaching and mentoring. He was a great teacher who always managed to make complex concepts accessible and engaging.

Neil passed away in March 2021, leaving a profound legacy in the world of physics. He was known for his exceptional ability to inspire and guide students, and his contributions to the field are invaluable.

Hendrik Lorentz: A Pioneer in Physics

Another physicist who had a profound impact on me is Hendrik Antoon Lorentz, the Netherlands’ national hero and Nobel laureate. Born in 1853, Lorentz made significant contributions to our understanding of the fundamental nature of matter and the behavior of light.

Lorenz formulated the Lorentz transformations to address the apparent lack of evidence for the Earth's relative motion with respect to the ether in the Michelson-Morley experiment. His work revolutionized how we view the nature of matter, emphasizing the electron's significance in electromagnetic phenomena within matter. This breakthrough made it possible to apply molecular theory to electrical and optical phenomena, explaining the behavior of light waves passing through moving transparent bodies.

In his groundbreaking work, Lorentz also related the velocity of light in a medium to its density and composition. This work led to the Lorenz-Lorentz formula, which has had enduring significance in the field of physics. Beyond his theoretical contributions, Lorentz also worked on practical engineering problems, making theoretical predictions that were later confirmed by observational data. For instance, his prediction of water movements during and after the reclamation of the Zuyderzee inlet of the North Sea was remarkably accurate.

Lastly, but perhaps most importantly, Lorentz was known for his genial personality, entirely contradicting the stereotype of a cold, detached academic. He was a warm, engaging, and approachable figure, which made him a beloved member of the academic community.

Neil deGrasse Tyson, another beloved physicist, also occupies a special place in my heart. He is one of the most brilliant thinkers of our time, but his ability to connect with average crowds, using humor, inspiration, and inclusiveness, sets him apart. Every time he speaks, I leave with a burning desire to learn more and to educate myself further on the topics he addresses. Such a man is a true blessing to our world, and I am immensely grateful to have him among us.