1. "I did not search for this."
- This quote is attributed to Röntgen when he discovered X-rays in 1895. He had been experimenting with cathode rays and noticed a strange glow coming from a fluorescent screen across the room. When he realized the screen had been exposed to something new and invisible, he famously exclaimed, "I did not search for this."
2. "Be slow to promise and quick to perform."
- This quote highlights Röntgen's emphasis on integrity and ethical behavior. It suggests that one should be cautious in making commitments but once a promise is made, one should promptly fulfill it.
3. "In science, there is only physics; everything else is stamp collecting."
- Röntgen's quote reflects his view on the fundamental nature of science. He believed that all scientific phenomena can be explained through the principles of physics, and he regarded other fields as essentially descriptive and not as fundamental as physics.
4. "One should never lose a healthy respect for the unknown, and never, under any circumstances, take things for granted."
- This quote emphasizes the importance of maintaining curiosity, skepticism, and openness in scientific research. Röntgen believed that scientists should always be mindful of the unknown and avoid complacency in accepting current explanations.
5. "Chance favors the prepared mind."
- This quote is often attributed to Louis Pasteur, but it has been associated with Röntgen as well. It reflects the idea that success in science requires both luck and careful preparation. A prepared mind is more likely to recognize and seize opportunities when they arise.
These quotes provide insights into Wilhelm Röntgen's scientific mindset, his emphasis on integrity, and his profound respect for the unknown.