Tech & Science · 1911
Probing the Atom and Reaching the Pole
In 1911, scientific understanding descended to the quantum realm and expanded to the earth's extreme limits. From Rutherford's atomic nucleus to Amundsen's triumph at the South Pole, humanity redefined physics, mobility, and exploration.
- April 8, 1911 | Physics | Netherlands
Discovery of Superconductivity
Dutch physicist Heike Kamerlingh Onnes discovers that electrical resistance in solid mercury abruptly vanishes when cooled to near absolute zero.
- May 1911 | Physics | United Kingdom
Discovery of the Atomic Nucleus
Ernest Rutherford publishes his revolutionary model of the atom, proving that a dense, positively charged nucleus lies at its core.
- 1911 | Particle Physics | Scotland
The Wilson Cloud Chamber
Charles Thomson Rees Wilson perfects the cloud chamber, allowing scientists to visually track the paths of ionizing radiation particles for the first time.
- October 30, 1911 | Physics | Belgium
The First Solvay Conference
Einstein, Curie, and Lorentz gather in Brussels for a historic invitation-only council that marks the official birth of modern quantum physics.
- February 1911 | Automotive | United States
Electric Automobile Self-Starter
Charles F. Kettering installs the first practical electric self-starter in a Cadillac, eliminating dangerous hand cranks and transforming motoring.
- January 26, 1911 | Aviation | United States
First Practical Seaplane Flight
Glenn Curtiss successfully flies the world's first practical seaplane from water in San Diego, ushering in the era of naval aviation.
- 1911 | Biochemistry | Poland
Formulation of the Vitamin Concept
Biochemist Casimir Funk isolates vital organic micronutrients necessary for human health, coining the term 'vitamine' to explain deficiency diseases.
- December 14, 1911 | Polar Exploration
Amundsen Reaches the South Pole
Norwegian explorer Roald Amundsen and his team become the first humans to reach the geographic South Pole after a masterfully planned expedition.
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