Max Planck, German physicist, c 1910

Max Planck, German physicist, c 1910. Photogravure after a photograph by Rudolf Duhrkoop of Max Planck (1858-1947). Born in Kiel, Germany, Planck studied at Munich and Berlin Universities, later becoming Professor of Theoretical Physics at Berlin (1889-1926). Following his abandonment of classical physical principles, Planck (1858-1947) introduced the hypothesis that oscillating atoms absorb and emit energy only in discrete bundles (quanta) and not continuously, as had previously beenthought. Subsequent developments by other physicists established the quantum theory of modern physics, of which Planck is regarded as the father. In 1918 he was awarded the Nobel Prize for his work in this field. From a collection of portraits of scientists published by Photographische Gesellschaft, Berlin, c 1910. Dimensions: 460mm x 340mm. ©SSPL/Science Museum