The case for curiosity-driven research | Suzie Sheehy

Summary

In the late 19th century, J.J. Thompson discovered the electron, sparking a revolution in science and technology. Initially viewed as a mere curiosity, this finding led to significant advancements, including X-rays and particle accelerators, which are now vital in medicine. The talk highlights the importance of curiosity-driven research, citing examples like antimatter and cancer treatment innovations. It advocates for continued investment in such research, emphasizing that breakthroughs often arise from exploring the unknown, ultimately equipping us to address contemporary challenges.

Takeaways

• 😀 In the late 19th century, scientists discovered cathode rays, leading to the identification of electrons as the first subatomic particles.
• 😀 J.J. Thompson's experiments showed that electrons are negatively charged and much lighter than hydrogen atoms.
• 😀 Thompson initially considered his discovery of electrons to be impractical, famously toasting, 'To the electron. May it never be of use to anybody.'
• 😀 Curiosity-driven research has historically led to groundbreaking discoveries that were not initially intended for practical applications.
• 😀 The discovery of electrons paved the way for the development of electronics and technologies such as cathode-ray tube televisions.
• 😀 Electrons interacting with metal produce X-rays, which revolutionized medical imaging and treatment techniques.
• 😀 Curiosity-driven research led to significant advancements in medical technology, including the development of PET scans and radiotherapy for cancer treatment.
• 😀 Particle accelerators, born from curiosity in particle physics, have expanded our understanding of the universe and matter.
• 😀 The evolution of particle accelerators allows scientists to explore deeper into atomic structures and create new particles.
• 😀 Investing in curiosity-driven research is crucial for addressing modern challenges and fostering future innovations.

Q & A

What discovery did J.J. Thompson make about cathode rays?

J.J. Thompson discovered that cathode rays were made of negatively charged particles, which we now call electrons, that are approximately 2,000 times lighter than a hydrogen atom.

Why did Thompson think his discovery of electrons was impractical?

Thompson believed his discovery had no immediate applications and famously toasted, 'To the electron. May it never be of use to anybody,' emphasizing his belief in research for curiosity's sake.

How did the discovery of electrons contribute to medical technology?

The discovery of electrons led to the creation of X-rays, which are used in medicine to visualize the inside of the human body, aiding in surgeries and diagnostics.

What role do particle accelerators play in modern science?

Particle accelerators allow scientists to explore the structure of atoms, create new elements, and investigate fundamental questions about the universe by smashing particles together at high energies.

How did Paul Dirac's predictions relate to the concept of antimatter?

Paul Dirac predicted the existence of antimatter through mathematical equations, leading to its discovery four years later, which is now used in technologies like PET scans in hospitals.

What is radiotherapy and how is it connected to particle accelerators?

Radiotherapy is a cancer treatment that uses high-energy X-rays produced by particle accelerators to kill cancer cells without the need for drugs or surgery.

What advancements in technology are directly linked to curiosity-driven research?

Curiosity-driven research has led to significant advancements such as the development of X-ray machines, particle accelerators, and the technology used in smartphones and computers.

What metaphor did the speaker use to describe our interaction with the physical world?

The speaker described how we are not actually touching our seats but rather hovering above them due to the repulsion between electrons in our bodies and those in the seat, illustrating the unseen forces at play.

Why does the speaker advocate for investment in curiosity-driven research?

The speaker argues that curiosity-driven research is essential for addressing future challenges and that historical discoveries often stem from research conducted without immediate practical aims.

How many particle accelerators are currently in operation around the world?

There are about 35,000 particle accelerators operating worldwide, not including those used in televisions, illustrating the widespread impact of this technology.