Pronunciation of scientists' names

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SUMMARY

The correct pronunciations of the names "Kirchoff" and "Fresnel" are essential for accurate scientific communication. Kirchoff is pronounced "Kerkoff," while Fresnel is pronounced "Frenel," aligning with their respective linguistic origins. The discussion highlights regional variations in pronunciation, particularly in California, where local accents may influence how these names are articulated. Understanding these pronunciations is crucial for anyone discussing the contributions of these scientists in academic or professional settings.

PREREQUISITES
  • Familiarity with the contributions of scientists such as Gustav Kirchhoff and Augustin-Jean Fresnel.
  • Basic understanding of phonetics and pronunciation rules in English and French.
  • Knowledge of regional dialects and their impact on name pronunciations.
  • Awareness of the historical context of scientific terminology.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the historical contributions of Gustav Kirchhoff to physics and electrical engineering.
  • Explore the significance of Augustin-Jean Fresnel's work in optics and wave theory.
  • Study the phonetic rules of French pronunciation to better understand similar names.
  • Investigate the impact of regional accents on the pronunciation of scientific terminology.
USEFUL FOR

Students, educators, and professionals in the fields of physics and optics, as well as anyone interested in the correct pronunciation of scientific names and terminology.

mnhtapu
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I'm confused what is the right pronunciation of "Kirchoff" and "Fresnel".
So far I have been pronouncing 'ch' in Kirchoff as 'sh' i.e. "Kirshoff" and keeping 's' silent in 'Fresnel' i.e. "Frenel" . Anyone from the native country of those two scientists can help me fix the right pronunciations of those two names?
 
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mnhtapu said:
I'm confused what is the right pronunciation of "Kirchoff" and "Fresnel".
So far I have been pronouncing 'ch' in Kirchoff as 'sh' i.e. "Kirshoff" and keeping 's' silent in 'Fresnel' i.e. "Frenel" . Anyone from the native country of those two scientists can help me fix the right pronunciations of those two names?

At least here in sunny California, Kirchoff is pronounced "Kerkoff". You have Fresnel correct. These words could easily be pronounced differently in different parts of the world.
 
Fresnel was a french guy. The pronunciation must be "frenel" like you said.
 
Kirkoff (almost Kierkoff), Frenel
 
mnhtapu said:
I'm confused what is the right pronunciation of "Kirchoff" and "Fresnel".
So far I have been pronouncing 'ch' in Kirchoff as 'sh' i.e. "Kirshoff" and keeping 's' silent in 'Fresnel' i.e. "Frenel" . Anyone from the native country of those two scientists can help me fix the right pronunciations of those two names?
I alway pronounce it Frenel, but you can't go by me. As for Fresnel, I have no idea how it might be pronounced.
 
For a real argument try "De Broglie"
 
mgb_phys said:
For a real argument try "De Broglie"
"De Broglie"? Who's De Broglie? Surely, you refer to de Broglie!
 

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