Who was Harrison M. Randall and what was his primary significance in the field of physics?

Harrison M. Randall was an American physicist, born on December 17, 1870, and who passed away on November 10, 1969. He is primarily recognized as the key figure responsible for establishing theoretical physics research at the University of Michigan. Additionally, he served as the president of the American Physical Society in 1937.

Where was Harrison M. Randall born, and where did he spend his formative years?

Harrison M. Randall was born in Burr Oak, Michigan, on December 17, 1870. His family subsequently moved to Ann Arbor, Michigan, where he spent his childhood and completed his early education.

What academic degrees did Harrison M. Randall obtain from the University of Michigan?

Harrison M. Randall obtained both his Bachelor of Science (BS) degree in Physics in 1893 and his Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Physics in 1902 from the University of Michigan. He also completed a Master's degree a year after his bachelor's.

What was the specific subject of Harrison M. Randall's doctoral thesis?

Harrison M. Randall's doctoral thesis, completed in 1902, focused on the measurement of the coefficient of expansion of quartz. This research involved studying how the mineral quartz changes in size with temperature variations.

During what period did Harrison M. Randall undertake a sabbatical in Europe, and where did he study?

Harrison M. Randall undertook a sabbatical year abroad from 1910 to 1911. During this time, he studied under the physicist Friedrich Paschen at the University of Tübingen in Germany.

Who was Friedrich Paschen, and what was his significance to Harrison M. Randall's academic development?

Friedrich Paschen was a physicist at the University of Tübingen who mentored Harrison M. Randall during his sabbatical. Paschen was known for discovering the Paschen series in the hydrogen spectrum and Paschen's Law regarding electrical discharges. Randall considered Paschen his greatest mentor and became an expert in infrared spectroscopy under his guidance.

What area of physics did Harrison M. Randall become an expert in following his sabbatical in Germany?

Following his sabbatical year studying under Friedrich Paschen, Harrison M. Randall developed expertise in infrared spectroscopy. This field involves using infrared light to study the properties of matter.

How did Harrison M. Randall's return from his sabbatical impact the physics department at the University of Michigan?

Upon returning from his sabbatical in 1910, Harrison M. Randall brought new ideas that led to a significant overhaul of physics research at the University of Michigan. He was instrumental in establishing theoretical physics as a key area of study, moving the department beyond its previous focus on precision metrology.

For how many years did Harrison M. Randall lead the physics department at the University of Michigan?

Harrison M. Randall served as the head of the physics department at the University of Michigan from 1915 to 1941, a tenure of 26 years.

Which notable physicists were recruited to the University of Michigan faculty due to Randall's efforts to build a theoretical physics group?

With Randall's encouragement, Walter Colby recruited Oskar Klein. Subsequently, Randall played a key role in bringing Otto Laporte, Samuel Goudsmit, George Uhlenbeck, and David Dennison onto the faculty, significantly strengthening the department's theoretical physics expertise.

What collaborative initiative did Randall and Colby establish to promote theoretical physics?

Harrison M. Randall and Walter Colby co-founded the Michigan Summer Symposia in Theoretical Physics. This annual event, held from 1927 to 1941, brought together leading physicists for lectures and discussions.

Can you name some of the distinguished physicists who participated in the Michigan Summer Symposia?

The Michigan Summer Symposia in Theoretical Physics hosted lectures and discussions by eminent scientists such as Niels Bohr, Paul Dirac, Enrico Fermi, Werner Heisenberg, and Wolfgang Pauli, among others.

What program did Randall initiate to foster international scientific exchange among physicists?

Harrison Randall initiated a program that provided University of Michigan physicists with a sabbatical every two years. This initiative allowed them to collaborate with and learn from physicists at European institutions, promoting international scientific engagement.

What prestigious award did Harrison M. Randall receive in 1952?

In 1952, Harrison M. Randall was awarded the Frederic Ives Medal by The Optical Society, recognizing his distinguished contributions to the field of optics.

How did Harrison M. Randall express his feelings about his own accomplishments and those of his students?

In interviews, Harrison M. Randall conveyed a complex mix of humility regarding his own achievements and bitterness over perceived instances where his ideas were allegedly taken by other researchers, particularly his students who later published more prominently.

When did Harrison M. Randall marry Ida Muma, and who was their daughter's notable husband?

Harrison M. Randall married Ida Muma on August 24, 1898. Their daughter, Mary Foote Randall, married Sterling Howard Emerson, who was a geneticist.

Who served as Harrison M. Randall's academic advisor for his doctoral studies?

Harrison M. Randall's academic advisor for his doctoral studies was Friedrich Paschen.

Name one of Harrison M. Randall's doctoral students mentioned in the text.

Nelson Fuson is mentioned as one of Harrison M. Randall's doctoral students.

What was the title of Harrison M. Randall's 1905 publication in the Physical Review?

Harrison M. Randall's 1905 publication in the Physical Review was titled "On the Coefficient of Expansion of Quartz."

What specific scientific series is named after Friedrich Paschen, Randall's mentor?

Friedrich Paschen is known for discovering the Paschen series, which refers to a set of spectral lines observed in the emission spectrum of hydrogen.

What is Paschen's Law, which is also associated with Randall's mentor?

Paschen's Law is a principle in physics related to electrical discharges, describing the relationship between the breakdown voltage, the gap distance between electrodes, and the gas pressure.

What was the duration of Harrison M. Randall's faculty appointment at the University of Michigan?

Harrison M. Randall held a faculty position at the University of Michigan from 1902 until his retirement in 1941, spanning a period of 39 years.

Besides the University of Michigan and the University of Tübingen, did Randall hold any other institutional affiliations mentioned?

Yes, Harrison M. Randall also worked as a researcher at the National Bureau of Standards from 1917 to 1919.

What specific field of spectroscopy did Randall's work heavily involve, particularly after his sabbatical?

Harrison M. Randall's work heavily involved infrared spectroscopy, a technique used to study the absorption and emission of infrared radiation by molecules, which provides information about their structure and composition.

What was the approximate age of Harrison M. Randall at the time of his death?

Harrison M. Randall was approximately 98 years old when he passed away on November 10, 1969.

What topic did Harrison M. Randall and D. W. Smith investigate in their 1953 publication?

In their 1953 publication, Harrison M. Randall and D. W. Smith explored the application of infrared spectroscopy within the field of bacteriological research.

What was the subject of the 1944 publication co-authored by R. A. Oetjen and H. M. Randall?

The 1944 publication co-authored by R. A. Oetjen and H. M. Randall focused on analyzing the infrared spectra of the isomeric octanes when they were in a vapor phase.

What specific subject did Randall, Dennison, Ginsburg, and Weber investigate in their 1937 publication?

In their 1937 publication, Randall, Dennison, Ginsburg, and Weber investigated the far infrared spectrum of water vapor, contributing to the understanding of molecular spectroscopy.

What was the title of the 1954 article by H. M. Randall that provided an overview of his work at the University of Michigan?

The title of the 1954 article by H. M. Randall was "Infrared Spectroscopy at the University of Michigan."

What professional society did Harrison M. Randall serve as president for in 1937?

Harrison M. Randall served as the president of the American Physical Society in 1937.

What was the name of the publication that featured an obituary for Harrison M. Randall?

An obituary for Harrison M. Randall was published in the journal "Physics Today."

What specific aspect of Randall's scientific work was highlighted in his obituary in Physics Today?

His obituary in Physics Today specifically mentioned that Harrison M. Randall applied infrared spectroscopy to the study of bacteria.

What was the primary focus of Harrison M. Randall's early professional activities after completing his Master's degree?

After completing his Master's degree in 1894, Harrison M. Randall spent several years teaching in high schools located in West Bay City and Saginaw before returning to pursue his PhD.

How did Randall's sabbatical year at the University of Tübingen contribute to his scientific expertise?

Randall's sabbatical year at the University of Tübingen, under the mentorship of Friedrich Paschen, was instrumental in him developing expertise in infrared spectroscopy, a field he initially had limited knowledge of.

What was the impact of Randall's recruitment of theoretical physicists on the University of Michigan's physics department?

Randall's recruitment of physicists such as Oskar Klein, Otto Laporte, Samuel Goudsmit, George Uhlenbeck, and David Dennison was crucial in establishing a robust theoretical physics group, significantly enhancing the department's research capabilities and national reputation.

What was the stated purpose of the Michigan Summer Symposia in Theoretical Physics?

The Michigan Summer Symposia in Theoretical Physics were established to provide a platform for lectures by renowned physicists, fostering intellectual exchange and advancing the field of theoretical physics.

What was the nature of Harrison M. Randall's personal reflections on his career, particularly concerning his relationships with students?

Harrison M. Randall's personal reflections often included a blend of humility about his own work and a sense of bitterness, stemming from his feeling that some of his ideas were appropriated by his students who subsequently achieved greater recognition.

What specific physical property of quartz did Harrison M. Randall investigate for his PhD thesis?

For his PhD thesis, Harrison M. Randall investigated the coefficient of expansion of quartz, which measures how much the material changes in size when its temperature changes.

In which scientific journal was Harrison M. Randall's 1937 paper on the far infrared spectrum of water vapor published?

The 1937 paper by Randall, Dennison, Ginsburg, and Weber on the far infrared spectrum of water vapor was published in "Physical Review."

What was Harrison M. Randall's key contribution to the development of physics at the University of Michigan?

Harrison M. Randall's most significant contribution was establishing and nurturing the field of theoretical physics research at the University of Michigan, transforming the department into a leading institution in the discipline.

What dual role did Harrison M. Randall fulfill in 1937?

In 1937, Harrison M. Randall held the dual positions of President of the American Physical Society and Chair of the physics department at the University of Michigan.

What was the professional relationship between Harrison M. Randall and Friedrich Paschen?

Friedrich Paschen served as Harrison M. Randall's academic mentor during his sabbatical year at the University of Tübingen, and Randall regarded Paschen as his most influential mentor.

What specific scientific law is associated with Friedrich Paschen?

Friedrich Paschen is associated with Paschen's Law, which pertains to electrical discharges in gases.

What was the title of the publication that served as an overview of Randall's work in infrared spectroscopy at the University of Michigan?

The article providing an overview of Randall's work was titled "Infrared Spectroscopy at the University of Michigan," published in 1954.

What was the name of the daughter of Harrison M. Randall, and who did she marry?

Harrison M. Randall's daughter was named Mary Foote Randall, and she married Sterling Howard Emerson, a noted geneticist.

What award did The Optical Society bestow upon Harrison M. Randall in 1952?

In 1952, The Optical Society awarded Harrison M. Randall the Frederic Ives Medal for his distinguished contributions to the field of optics.

Harrison M. Randall Wiki: Harrison M. Randall: Architect of Theoretical Physics at Michigan

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Biography

Early Life and Foundation

Harrison McAllister Randall (December 17, 1870 – November 10, 1969) was a distinguished American physicist. He spent the majority of his career at the University of Michigan, where he became a pivotal figure in establishing and advancing the field of theoretical physics. His tenure as head of the physics department profoundly shaped its research trajectory and national standing.

National Recognition

Randall's influence extended beyond his home institution. He served as the president of the prestigious American Physical Society in 1937, a testament to his leadership and standing within the scientific community. His contributions were recognized with significant accolades, including the Frederic Ives Medal in 1952.

Education and Early Career

University of Michigan

Born in Burr Oak, Michigan, Randall's family later relocated to Ann Arbor. He entered the University of Michigan at age 19, earning his Bachelor of Science in Physics in 1893. He continued his studies, completing a Master's degree the following year. After a period teaching in high schools, he returned to the University of Michigan in 1899 to pursue his PhD in Physics, which he completed in 1902.

Doctoral Research

Randall's doctoral thesis, titled "On the Coefficient of Expansion of Quartz," involved precise experimental measurements. This early work laid the groundwork for his later specialization in experimental physics, particularly in the burgeoning field of spectroscopy.

Sabbatical in Europe

Mentorship under Paschen

During his 1910-1911 sabbatical, Randall studied at the University of Tübingen under the renowned physicist Friedrich Paschen. Paschen was known for his work on spectral series and electrical discharges. Randall, initially unfamiliar with spectroscopy, was immersed in the field and quickly became an expert in infrared spectroscopy. He considered Paschen his most significant mentor.

Impact on Research Focus

This period abroad was transformative, shifting Randall's research focus towards spectroscopy. The expertise gained in infrared spectroscopy would become a cornerstone of his subsequent research and teaching at the University of Michigan, influencing generations of physicists.

Pioneering Research

Infrared Spectroscopy

Randall's primary research area was infrared spectroscopy. His work involved developing and utilizing advanced techniques to study the absorption and emission spectra of various molecules, particularly in the far-infrared region. This research was crucial for understanding molecular structure and vibrational modes.

Water Vapor Studies

A notable contribution was his research on the infrared spectrum of water vapor, conducted with colleagues. These studies provided fundamental data for atmospheric physics and molecular spectroscopy, contributing to a deeper understanding of molecular interactions and properties.

Applications in Bacteriology

Demonstrating the broad applicability of his techniques, Randall also explored the use of infrared spectroscopy in bacteriological research, investigating spectral properties of bacteria. This highlights his innovative approach to applying spectroscopic methods to diverse scientific challenges.

Academic Leadership

Transforming Physics at Michigan

From 1915 to 1941, Randall served as the head of the University of Michigan's Physics Department. Prior to his tenure, the department primarily focused on precision metrology. Randall, inspired by his European sabbatical and the emerging field of quantum mechanics, spearheaded a significant shift towards theoretical physics and modern experimental techniques.

Building a Theoretical Powerhouse

Randall actively recruited leading theorists to Michigan, including Oskar Klein, Otto Laporte, Samuel Goudsmit, George Uhlenbeck, and David Dennison. This strategic expansion established a robust theoretical physics group, elevating the university's profile in the field.

Fostering Collaboration

He initiated the Michigan Summer Symposia in Theoretical Physics (1927-1941), attracting prominent physicists like Niels Bohr, Paul Dirac, and Werner Heisenberg. He also established a sabbatical program enabling faculty to collaborate with European researchers, fostering a vibrant academic environment.

Professional Leadership

American Physical Society

Randall's leadership extended to national organizations. He served as Vice-President of the American Association for the Advancement of Science in 1925 and, most notably, as President of the American Physical Society in 1937, concurrently serving as chair of the UMich Physics Department.

National Bureau of Standards

During World War I, from 1917 to 1919, Randall contributed his expertise as a researcher at the National Bureau of Standards, applying his scientific acumen to national priorities.

Distinguished Awards

Frederic Ives Medal

In recognition of his significant contributions to optics and spectroscopy, Harrison M. Randall was awarded the prestigious Frederic Ives Medal by The Optical Society (now Optica) in 1952. This award is considered one of the highest honors in the field of optics.

Personal Reflections

Humility and Bitterness

Interviews revealed a complex personality: a blend of profound humility regarding his own achievements and a notable bitterness over perceived intellectual property theft, particularly concerning ideas shared with students who later achieved greater prominence. This duality offers a nuanced perspective on his character.

Family Life

Randall married Ida Muma on August 24, 1898. His daughter, Mary Foote Randall, married Sterling Howard Emerson, a prominent geneticist, further connecting the family to the scientific community.

Selected Publications

Key Works

Randall authored and co-authored numerous influential papers throughout his career. His work primarily focused on infrared spectroscopy, molecular structure, and the properties of various substances.

Randall, H. M. (1905). "On the Coefficient of Expansion of Quartz". Physical Review, Series I, 20(1), 10-37.
Randall, H. M., Dennison, D. M., Ginsburg, N., & Weber, L. R. (1937). "The Far Infrared Spectrum of Water Vapor". Physical Review, 52(3), 160-174.
Oetjen, R. A., & Randall, H. M. (1944). "The Infra-Red Spectra of the Isomeric Octanes in the Vapor Phase". Reviews of Modern Physics, 16(3-4), 265-270.
Randall, H. M., & Smith, D. W. (1953). "Infrared Spectroscopy in Bacteriological Research*". Journal of the Optical Society of America, 43(11), 1086-1092.
Randall, H. M. (1954). "Infrared Spectroscopy at the University of Michigan*". Journal of the Optical Society of America, 44(2), 97-103.

Presidents of the American Physical Society

Historical Leadership

Harrison M. Randall served as President of the American Physical Society in 1937. The following table lists the presidents during his era and surrounding periods, showcasing the distinguished individuals who led this influential organization.

Presidents of the American Physical Society
1899–1925	Henry Augustus Rowland (1899) Albert A. Michelson (1901) Arthur Gordon Webster (1903) Carl Barus (1905) Edward Leamington Nichols (1907) Henry Crew (1909) William Francis Magie (1911) Benjamin Osgood Peirce (1913) Ernest Merritt (1914) Robert Andrews Millikan (1916) Henry A. Bumstead (1918) Joseph Sweetman Ames (1919) Theodore Lyman (1921) Thomas Corwin Mendenhall (1923) Dayton Miller (1925)
1926–1950	Karl Taylor Compton (1927) Henry Gale (1929) William Francis Gray Swann (1931) Paul D. Foote (1933) Arthur Compton (1934) Robert W. Wood (1935) Floyd K. Richtmyer (1936) Harrison M. Randall (1937) Lyman James Briggs (1938) John Torrence Tate Sr. (1939) John Zeleny (1940) George B. Pegram (1941) George W. Stewart (1941) Percy Williams Bridgman (1942) Albert W. Hull (1943) Arthur Jeffrey Dempster (1944) Harvey Fletcher (1945) Edward Condon (1946) Lee Alvin DuBridge (1947) J. Robert Oppenheimer (1948) Francis Wheeler Loomis (1949) Isidor Isaac Rabi (1950)

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Harrison M. Randall

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Biography 📜

👤 Early Life and Foundation

🌍 National Recognition

Education and Early Career 🎓

🏫 University of Michigan

🔬 Doctoral Research

Sabbatical in Europe 🇪🇺

🧑‍🏫 Mentorship under Paschen

💡 Impact on Research Focus

Pioneering Research ⚛️

📡 Infrared Spectroscopy

💧 Water Vapor Studies

🦠 Applications in Bacteriology

Academic Leadership 🏛️

🏗️ Transforming Physics at Michigan

🤝 Building a Theoretical Powerhouse

🗓️ Fostering Collaboration

Professional Leadership 🏆

🇺🇸 American Physical Society

🏛️ National Bureau of Standards

Distinguished Awards 🏅

🌟 Frederic Ives Medal

Personal Reflections 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦

🤔 Humility and Bitterness

💍 Family Life

Selected Publications 🖋️

📄 Key Works

Presidents of the American Physical Society 🇺🇸

📜 Historical Leadership

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📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Biography

Early Life and Foundation

National Recognition

Education and Early Career

University of Michigan

Doctoral Research

Sabbatical in Europe

Mentorship under Paschen

Impact on Research Focus

Pioneering Research

Infrared Spectroscopy

Water Vapor Studies

Applications in Bacteriology

Academic Leadership

Transforming Physics at Michigan

Building a Theoretical Powerhouse

Fostering Collaboration

Professional Leadership

American Physical Society

National Bureau of Standards

Distinguished Awards

Frederic Ives Medal

Personal Reflections

Humility and Bitterness

Family Life

Selected Publications

Key Works

Presidents of the American Physical Society

Historical Leadership

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice