Contents
James Jeans
Mathematical work on gases, stars and gravitational instability.
The Dynamical Theory of Gases · Jeans instability
- Born
- 11 September 1877
- Birthplace
- Ormskirk
- Died
- 16 September 1946
More people
James Jeans
English physicist and astronomer who also wrote widely read books about science. His lasting contributions include the conditions under which a gas cloud can collapse under gravity.
Early life
Cambridge education
Attended schools in England before studying mathematics at Trinity College, Cambridge, where he excelled in the Mathematical Tripos.
Career
- 1901
Trinity fellow
Began an academic career at Cambridge.
- 1904
Princeton
Became professor of applied mathematics.
- 1910
Cambridge return
Continued theoretical research in Britain.
Contributions
The Dynamical Theory of Gases
Published a major scientific monograph.
Jeans instability
Analysed the balance between pressure and gravitational collapse.
Beyond work
Family and music
Married poet Charlotte Mitchell, and after her death married musician Susi Hock. Wrote Science and Music as a birthday gift for Susi.
Sources & photo credit
Biography and career ↗Biographical references ↗Original photograph. Cropped and displayed in monochrome.
Photo: Kokorik (Uploader). Public domain · Original image. Cropped and displayed in monochrome.