Home > Arts > Street art graffiti > Still life > Portrait paintings
Ernest Rutherford, caricature
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Science Photo Library
Ernest Rutherford, caricature
Ernest Rutherford. Caricature of the New Zealand nuclear physicist Ernest Rutherford (1871-1937) with an electron orbiting his head. This represents his contributions to the understanding of atomic structure and radioactivity. To study atomic nuclei, in 1909 he fired helium ions (alpha particles) at thin gold foil and observed the scattering pattern. A few particles were deflected by large amounts, implying that the atomic nucleus is very small and positively charged. He won the 1908 Nobel Prize for Chemistry for showing that radioactivity was the spontaneous decay of atoms, and that the time taken for half a radioactive sample to decay was constant (the half life)
Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations
Media ID 6411632
© GARY BROWN/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
1900s 1908 Atom Atomic Caricature Electron Nobel Laureate Nobel Prize For Chemistry Nuclear Physicist Nuclear Physics Orbit Orbital Orbiting Physicist Portraits Radio Active Radioactivity Surname R Ernest Rutherford Mono Chrome New Zealander Physical
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Arts
> Realistic drawings
> Still life artwork
> Portrait artwork
> Arts
> Street art graffiti
> Still life
> Portrait paintings
> Oceania
> New Zealand
> Related Images
> Science Photo Library
> Caricatures
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases a caricature of the renowned New Zealand nuclear physicist, Ernest Rutherford. The artist ingeniously depicts Rutherford with an electron gracefully orbiting his head, symbolizing his groundbreaking contributions to atomic structure and radioactivity. In 1909, Rutherford conducted a pioneering experiment where he bombarded thin gold foil with helium ions (alpha particles) and observed their scattering pattern. Astonishingly, some particles were deflected significantly, leading him to deduce that the atomic nucleus is incredibly small yet positively charged. This revolutionary discovery laid the foundation for our understanding of atomic nuclei. Rutherford's exceptional achievements in unraveling the mysteries of radioactivity earned him the prestigious Nobel Prize for Chemistry in 1908. He demonstrated that radioactivity stems from atoms undergoing spontaneous decay and revealed that the time taken for half of a radioactive sample to decay remains constant - known as its half-life. This remarkable illustration pays homage to Rutherford's significant role as one of history's most influential physicists. Often referred to as the "Father of Nuclear Physics" his legacy continues to shape our knowledge of fundamental particles and their behavior within atoms. Captivatingly capturing this iconic figure against a monochrome backdrop, this print serves as a timeless reminder of Rutherford's immense contributions to science and his everlasting impact on our understanding of the universe we inhabit.
MADE IN THE USA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.