What scientist predicted the end of physics in the late 1800s?

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SUMMARY

Lord Kelvin, a prominent scientist of the late 1800s, predicted that physics was nearing its end due to the belief that only a few experiments remained to be solved. This assertion, however, was later contradicted by the emergence of quantum mechanics (QM) and relativity. In the same year, Kelvin published "Nineteenth-Century Clouds over the Dynamical Theory of Heat and Light," which foreshadowed the necessity for these revolutionary theories. The discussion also mentions Philipp von Jolly as a potential figure related to this prediction.

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  • Understanding of quantum mechanics (QM)
  • Familiarity with the theory of relativity
  • Knowledge of historical scientific figures and their contributions
  • Basic comprehension of 19th-century physics concepts
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  • Research Lord Kelvin's contributions to thermodynamics and his predictions
  • Study the principles of quantum mechanics and their implications
  • Explore the development of the theory of relativity and its historical context
  • Investigate the works of Philipp von Jolly and his influence on physics
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Students of physics, historians of science, and anyone interested in the evolution of scientific thought in the late 19th century.

emimun
Hi to you all!
I don't remember the name of a scientist of late '800, who said that we were arriving to the end of the physics, because just little experiments to solve, and then we would have known all about the physics. But that little experiments would have originated QM and relativity.

Who is this person?
 
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Great! Very speed! Many many thanks!
 
1800s, not "Late '800"!
 
I always thought this was a bit unfair on Kelvin since the same year he published "Nineteenth-Century Clouds over the Dynamical Theory of Heat and Light" which (sort of) predicted relativity and QM (or at least the need for them).
 
HallsofIvy said:
1800s, not "Late '800"!

Sorry. Thanks!
 

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