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Acoustic Shock Wave
In 1877, while a Professor of Experimental Physics at Prague Charles University, Ernst Mach explored the scientific field of supersonic velocity and theorized the concept of what we know today as MACH SPEED. While Mach proved his brilliance in mathematics and physics during his lifetime, it was in 1877 when his paper proved an acoustic shock wave was published. This work solidified his role in history and further illustrates his importance in the hydrodynamic and aerodynamic fields. -
The Science of Mechanics - A Critical and Historical Account of Its Development
Mach loved to research and performed experiments to gain an understanding of the world around him. The Science of Mechanics - A Critical and Historical Account of Its Development was published in 1893 and offers an inside look into the mind of Mack. Albert Einstein would refer to several of Mach's thoughts and methods, including those on inertial theories as Einstein went on to create his Theory of Relativity in 1905. -
The Analysis of Sensations and the Relation of the Physical to the Psychical
In 1897, The Analysis of Sensations, and the Relation of the Physical to the Psychical was published. Mach experimented with various sensations related to colors, textures, smells, and other various sensory stimuli. Further to testing, Mach discovered, that while things may change, they remain the same and continue to hold feelings for the individuals who share in their encounter. Experiments included closing one eye while recording the image with the other, and visa-versa, right eye/left eye. -
Atoms Do Not Exist!
In 1897, Mach infamously declared he did not believe in atoms – they simply did not exist, after listening to a Ludwig Boltzmann lecture on the subject. Mach changed his mind and his attitude on the subject in 1905, after Einstein demonstrated proof of their existence and established atomic theory. -
Space and Geometry
From 1901-1903, Mach wrote a series of essays for the magazine, The Monist. The essays were a culmination of his life’s work, discussing space based on physics, history, and the senses. No other philosopher had addressed space in this multitiered way. Ernst Mach’s Space and Geometry – In the Light of Physiological, Psychological, and Physical Inquiry is still in print today.