How Did Robert Pound Impact Physics Without a Ph.D.?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on the contributions of Robert Pound to physics, particularly his work on gravitational redshift and nuclear magnetic resonance, despite not holding a Ph.D. The scope includes biographical reflections and the impact of his work on the field of physics.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Historical

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants note that Pound and Glen Rebka first observed the gravitational redshift of light in a terrestrial laboratory.
  • Others mention his involvement in the discovery of nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR).
  • It is highlighted that Pound served on the Harvard faculty for many years and was the physics department chairman without earning a Ph.D.
  • Several participants express admiration for Pound's character, humor, and speaking ability, particularly in relation to his presentations on his experiences at the Rad Lab and the discovery of NMR.
  • Some participants mention that there are units of measure and currency named after him, indicating his lasting impact on the field.
  • Humorous remarks are made regarding the phrase "Did you try whacking it?" with suggestions to modify it in honor of Pound.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally express admiration for Robert Pound and acknowledge his contributions to physics, but there is no formal consensus on specific aspects of his impact or legacy.

Contextual Notes

The discussion reflects personal anecdotes and opinions about Pound rather than a structured analysis of his scientific contributions.

Who May Find This Useful

Readers interested in the history of physics, biographical accounts of influential scientists, and discussions on the impact of individuals in STEM fields may find this thread engaging.

jtbell
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He and Glen Rebka first observed the gravitational redshift of light in a terrestrial laboratory. He was also involved in the discovery of nuclear magnetic resonance. Amazingly, although he was on the Harvard faculty for many years and even served as physics department chairman, he never earned a Ph.D.!

http://www.nytimes.com/2010/04/20/us/20pound.html
 
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Wow, interesting.
 
Thanks JT for letting us know this. I dearly love this kind of scientist. RIP
 
He had a great sense of humor and was an engaging speaker late into life. His slide show on his days at the Rad Lab and subsequent discovery of NMR with Purcell right after the war were spellbinding.
 
jtbell said:
He and Glen Rebka first observed the gravitational redshift of light in a terrestrial laboratory. He was also involved in the discovery of nuclear magnetic resonance. Amazingly, although he was on the Harvard faculty for many years and even served as physics department chairman, he never earned a Ph.D.!

http://www.nytimes.com/2010/04/20/us/20pound.html

Fascinating.
 
Amazing, he even had a unit of measure and a cake named after him.
 
Last edited:
And a unit of currency!
 
"Did you try whacking it?"

Thanks for posting that jt, very interesting man.
 
Evo said:
"Did you try whacking it?"

Thanks for posting that jt, very interesting man.

Perhaps we should change that to "Did you try Pounding it" in his honour.