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Plate from Opticks, by Isaac Newton, showing the splitting of light through prisms, 1704
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Plate from Opticks, by Isaac Newton, showing the splitting of light through prisms, 1704
Plate from Opticks, by Isaac Newton, showing the splitting of light through prisms, 1704. English physicist and mathematician Newton (1642-1727) first separated white light into the colours of the spectrum by using a prism in 1666. His theories regarding optics and the nature of light, set out in Opticks, led to him building the first reflecting telescope. Newtons discoveries were prolific and exerted a huge influence on science and thought. His theories of gravity and his three laws of motion were outlined in his greatest work, Philosophiae Naturalis Principia Mathematica, (1687) and he is credited with discovering differential calculus. Knighted by Queen Anne in 1705, Newton is buried in Westminster Abbey, London
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases a plate from Isaac Newton's groundbreaking work, Opticks, published in 1704. The plate vividly illustrates the revolutionary concept of light splitting through prisms, which Newton first discovered in 1666. As an eminent English physicist and mathematician, Newton's profound theories on optics and the nature of light laid the foundation for his numerous scientific achievements. Renowned as one of history's greatest scientists, Sir Isaac Newton made significant contributions to various fields. His remarkable insights into gravity and formulation of three laws of motion were presented in his monumental publication Philosophiae Naturalis Principia Mathematica (1687). Additionally, he is credited with discovering differential calculus—a fundamental branch of mathematics. Knighted by Queen Anne in 1705 for his exceptional accomplishments, Newton's legacy continues to shape scientific thought even today. He rests eternally at Westminster Abbey in London—an homage to his immense influence on science and society. This monochrome print captures not only the brilliance behind Newton's discoveries but also highlights the intricate diagram depicting light dispersion through prisms. It serves as a testament to England's rich scientific heritage during the eighteenth century when Britain was at the forefront of intellectual advancements.
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