Albert Einstein (1879 - 1955 C.E.)

Einstein is famous for his theory of relativity, and his equation on mass–energy equivalence. E = mc² states that mass and energy is the same thing. The theory of relativity is split into two theories: special relativity, and general relativity.

Relative means in relation with something else, so the special relativity theory states that the speed of light is always constant, no matter from what perspective it is viewed in.

The general theory states that space and time works together. Empty space-time without gravity is flat, however space with matter is curved by gravity. These curves cause time to run slowly. Gravity also bends light by bending the median it travels in: space.

The existence of atoms and molecules was confirmed. With Einstein’s calculations, one could determine the size of these invisible atoms and
molecules. Also, the idea that heat is the result of the motion of atoms and molecules was confirmed. And finally, the vital importance of statistics and probability in physics had been established. This was a pivotal achievement, considering the truly revolutionary discoveries in quantum mechanics that were about to ensue. More broadly, Einstein’s use of statistical fluctuations, and probability theory, eventually revolutionized the study of all complex systems—weather, climate, stock markets, and evolution, to name a few—and forever improved our understanding of how the world works.