Emily Noether
University of Erlangen
Mathematics
1907
Abstract Algebra, Symmetry
Modern Physics, Mathematical Methods, Classical Mechanics
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Emmy_Noether
UG-UD
Scientist Biography
Biographical information
Emily Noether was born in 1882 in Erlangen, Germany. She attended the University of Erlangen and graduated with an undergraduate degree and PhD in mathematics. However, she originally was barred from going to the University because of her gender. After her graduation, she struggled to find a job in academia. Even though she was plagued with discrimination because of her gender, she became a leading researcher in abstract algebra and symmetry. Her biggest contribution to the field of physics was Noether's theorem. This work was heavily influenced by her extensive expertise in symmetry and paved the way for modern physics as we know today. After her work developing her theorem, the Nazis took over Germany and Noether was of Jewish descent. She immigrated to the United States and taught at Bryn Mawr College in Pennsylvania. She died 18 months after her arrival in the US of complications for surgery at age 53.
Research Areas:
Abstract Algebra, SymmetryRelevant Courses:
Modern Physics, Mathematical Methods, Classical MechanicsKey Contributions
Noether's theorem states that for every continuous symmetry of a physical system there is a corresponding conservation law. For example, if a physical process exhibits the same outcomes regardless of location or time, then it is symmetric under continuous translations in space and time respectively. By Noether's theorem, these symmetries account for the conservation laws of linear momentum and energy within this system, respectively.