The theory of relativity and the beginning of success
1905 was a very important year in Einstein's life. It is known as the 'Annus Mirabilis', because in this year he published four scientific papers, which changed the foundations of physics. One of these papers was on the Special Theory of Relativity, which later brought Einstein worldwide fame. The most significant aspect of this theory is the famous equation E = mc². This equation shows that energy and mass are related to each other and can change each other. This discovery opened a new horizon in the field of physics.
In addition to the theory of special relativity, Einstein provided important information about light-electricity in his other studies. In 1921, he won the Nobel Prize in Physics for this discovery. His photoelectric theory proved that light behaves in particle form and that particles (photons) affect electrons. This research led to the introduction of quantum mechanics and established new theories about the mechanism of light.
General Theory of Relativity
In 1915, Einstein published another important theory, which is the General Theory of Relativity. This theory is a more comprehensive version of the theory of special relativity and it gives new ideas about the gravitational force. According to this theory, gravity is not a force, but an effect created by the curvature of space-time. Einstein explained that a massive object (such as a planet or a star) creates a curvature in space-time, and that other objects follow this curvature. An observational proof of this theory was found during a solar eclipse in 1919, which made Einstein world famous.
Quantum theory and Einstein's contradictions
Although Einstein was instrumental in laying the foundations of quantum mechanics, he later disagreed with some aspects of it. In particular, he opposed the Uncertainty Principle of quantum theory. His famous quote, "God does not play dice with the universe", indicates his steadfast opposition to this theory.
Personal life and political views
Einstein's personal life also went through many events. His first wife was Mileva Maric, with whom he had two children. But their relationship did not last long and they broke up. Einstein later married a woman named Elsa.
Apart from science, Einstein was also involved in politics and human rights. He spoke for peace during World War I and opposed war during World War II. Although he was a pacifist, he supported America's Manhattan Project to develop the atomic bomb, as he believed that Hitler's Nazi Germany was developing nuclear weapons and posed a great threat to mankind. After the war, he campaigned for the non-use and proliferation of nuclear weapons and tried to contribute to the United Nations peace process.
Death and Succession
Albert Einstein died on April 18, 1955 at Princeton University. The extraordinary contributions he made during his lifetime remain the foundation of science even today.
Einstein's theories and ideas created a path of inquiry for scientists, which are used today in many fields, from space exploration to nuclear research. His boundless curiosity, creative thinking and approach to human welfare have immortalized him not only as a scientist but also as a great guide to humanity.