How do you prove the existence of something you can't see? For Albert Einstein, a liberal application of math usually did the trick! Physics scholars discover the relationship between atomic size and the motion of larger particles they encounter, called Brownian motion. The video describes the research and findings of the scientists that studied atomic size prior to Einstein and how he incorporated their work into his own theory.

Concepts

atoms, particles, motion, albert einstein

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Additional Tags

science

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Instructional Ideas

• Teachers can use the resource in a discussion of Brownian motion in a life science class in addition to physics lessons
• Place pollen grains in a sample of water and have students record their observations

Classroom Considerations

• Pupils should have some understanding of atomic structure in order to fully appreciate the resource

• This video is hosted on YouTube

Pros

• The narrator provides colorful examples to help the class relate to Einstein's theory
• Through animation, individuals can visualize the science behind the mathematical equation Einstein developed without high-level prior knowledge

Cons

• None