Bohr Quote by G.N.Lewis
![“Planck...and Bohr...have invented systems containing electrons of which the motion produces no effect upon external charges...[N]ot only [is this] inconsistent with the accepted laws of electromagnetism, but I may add, is logically objectionable, for that state of motion which produces no physical…” quote by G.N.Lewis](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/363/g-n-lewis-101729_chemistry_planck-and-bohr-have-invented-systems-co_993371.jpg)
““Planck...and Bohr...have invented systems containing electrons of which the motion produces no effect upon external charges...[N]ot only [is this] inconsistent with the accepted laws of electromagnetism, but I may add, is logically objectionable, for that state of motion which produces no physical effect whatsoever may better be called a state of rest.””
About This Quote
Source Lecture: Physics symposium, 1925, Academic presentation
A hypothetical state where moving electrons cause no external effect contradicts electromagnetism and suggests such a state is essentially rest.
In simple terms: If motion has no observable effect, it is effectively no motion.
Key Takeaway
Question assumptions about motion without observable impact.
Themes
physics
philosophy of science
electromagnetism
Mood
analytical
inquisitive
Type
scientific
philosophical
When to use this quote
- laboratory experiments
- theoretical modeling
- educational curricula
- science communication
- philosophical debate
Key Concepts
relativity
quantum theory
conceptual analysis
Questions to Reflect On
- Can a phenomenon be real if it leaves no trace?
- What does “rest” truly mean in physics?
A Different Perspective
Some argue that undetectable effects could still be meaningful; the claim may be too strict.
![“[About the great synthesis of atomic physics in the 1920s:] It was a heroic time. It was not the doing of any one man; it involved the collaboration of scores of scientists from many different lands. But from the first to last the deeply creative, subtle and critical spirit of Niels Bohr guided…” quote by J. Robert Oppenheimer](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/34e/j-robert-oppenheimer-6978_bohr_about-the-great-synthesis-of-atomic-phys_427709.jpg)
