Heinrich Hertz

Proved the existence of electromagnetic waves, confirming James Clerk Maxwell's theories and paving the way for wireless communication.

Heinrich Hertz (1857–1894) was a German physicist whose experiments in the late 19th century confirmed the existence of electromagnetic waves, a cornerstone of Maxwell's equations. Born in Hamburg, Hertz studied under Hermann von Helmholtz and became fascinated by Maxwell's theoretical work, which predicted that light was a form of electromagnetic radiation. In 1887, Hertz constructed a apparatus to generate and detect radio waves, using a spark-gap transmitter and a loop antenna. His observations of these waves' reflection and refraction validated Maxwell’s theories.

Hertz's discoveries laid the groundwork for technologies like radio, television, and radar. Although he died prematurely at 36, his work inspired inventors like Guglielmo Marconi and Nikola Tesla. The unit of frequency, hertz (Hz), commemorates his contributions. Hertz also researched the photoelectric effect, later explained by Albert Einstein, and contributed to the understanding of cathode rays.

Hertz's legacy is immortalized in the wireless revolution, enabling global communication systems. His rigorous methodology bridged theoretical physics and engineering, embodying the spirit of scientific inquiry.