Erwin Schrödinger (1887–1961)
Austrian theoretical physicist who developed fundamental results in quantum theory. Devised the Schrödinger equation, the central equation governing the time evolution of the wave function. Coined the term “quantum entanglement” (1935). Shared the 1933 Nobel Prize in Physics with Paul Dirac “for the discovery of new productive forms of atomic theory.”
Key Contributions
The Schrödinger Equation
The Schrödinger equation provides a way to calculate the wave function of a system and how it changes dynamically in time. It is the mathematical backbone of the physics part of many-worlds-interpretation — the universal wave function evolves unitarily according to this equation, with no collapse.
Schrödinger’s Cat
Schrödinger’s most famous thought experiment (1935) illustrates the quantum measurement problem: a cat in a sealed box whose fate (alive/dead) is entangled with a quantum event such as radioactive decay. In the many-worlds-interpretation, the cat is both alive and dead — but in different branches of the multiverse. The cat thought experiment was designed to expose the absurdity of applying superposition to macroscopic objects; the MWI embraces the resolution by branching.
Precursor to Many-Worlds
In a 1952 Dublin lecture, Schrödinger asserted that the multiple histories described by the wave equation are “not alternatives but all really happen simultaneously” — described by David Deutsch as the earliest known reference to many-worlds. His writings from the period contain elements resembling the modal interpretation. Some recent scholarship (Allori et al. 2011) argues Schrödinger’s earlier views align closely with the MWI.
Other Contributions
Wrote on statistical mechanics, thermodynamics, color theory, electrodynamics, general relativity, and cosmology. His book What Is Life? (1944) addressed genetics from a physics viewpoint and influenced the later development of molecular biology. Engaged deeply with the philosophy of science, ancient and oriental philosophy, ethics, and religion.
Personal History
Born 12 August 1887. Lived with both his wife and mistress, which led to problems causing him to leave Oxford. Held a position in Graz until the Nazi takeover (1938), when he fled. Long-term position in Dublin until retirement in 1955; returned to Vienna in 1956. Tied for eighth in a Physics World poll of the greatest physicists of all time. Died 4 January 1961.
References
- Wikipedia (2026). Erwin Schrödinger. 1