Any list of thermodynamicists that does not include Gibbs is pretty much useless.
The language of thermodynamics derives in great measure from Gibbs's work. He also made fundamental contributions to statistical mechanics (the concept of ensembles was introduced by him). His work on the thermodynamics of heterogeneous systems constitutes the basis for all the work done on the thermodynamics and kinetics of materials. ETC
Jon - 15 years ago
Where's the Planck? The Kelvin? I do agree with the above commentor that Gibbs also deserves a mention, and voted for Boltzmann.
Matthew - 15 years ago
Although I voted for Boltzmann, I believe that Josiah Gibbs deserves to be on the short list as well.
Any list of thermodynamicists that does not include Gibbs is pretty much useless.
The language of thermodynamics derives in great measure from Gibbs's work. He also made fundamental contributions to statistical mechanics (the concept of ensembles was introduced by him). His work on the thermodynamics of heterogeneous systems constitutes the basis for all the work done on the thermodynamics and kinetics of materials. ETC
Where's the Planck? The Kelvin? I do agree with the above commentor that Gibbs also deserves a mention, and voted for Boltzmann.
Although I voted for Boltzmann, I believe that Josiah Gibbs deserves to be on the short list as well.