George Gamow's fame as a physicist began with his
theory that explained the radioactive alpha particle decay of atomic
nuclei. In his cosmological studies, he is known for the "big bang"
theory of the origin of the universe, and in 1954 his studies in
biology led him to suggest that the genetic code was a triplet code.
This concept is fundamental to modern biology. He was perhaps most
widely known for his popular writings on science that introduced
millions of readers to the concepts of relativity and atomic and
nuclear physics. These writings have been translated into several
dozen languages. In recognition of the global impact of his popular
scientific writings, the United National awarded him with the
Kalinga Prize in 1956.
|
| Career Highlights |
| 1928 |
Explained nuclear alpha decay by quantum mechanical
tunneling; |
| 1928 |
Pioneered the liquid-drop model in nuclear physics; |
| 1936 |
Described, with Edward Teller, spin-induced nuclear beta
decay; |
| 1938 |
Introduced the "Gamow" factor in stellar reaction rates and
element formation; |
| 1939 |
Modeled red giants, supernovae, and neutron stars; |
|
|
| Developed the "Big Bang Theory" of the
universe; | |
| 1954 |
First suggested how the genetic code might be transcribed; |
1939
-1967 |
Wrote the popular science fiction series, the "Adventures of Mr.
Tompkins"
(most recently reprinted in 2001). |
