May 13th - Inge Lehmann Day
The pioneering scientist, who died aged 105 in 1993, transformed our perception of Earth by discovering the existence of an inner core. She studied earthquakes to make her findings.
From what she observed Lehmann asserted that because some P-waves, which should have been deflected by the core, were of record (not deflected) then a layering in the core must be present. This layering, Lehmann theorized, is of a solid inner core, liquid outer core and is separated by some sort of boundary between the two. This boundary is known as the Lehmann Discontinuity and while for over twenty years was highly controversial it was also later confirmed (1970).
Article:
http://www.ibtimes.co.uk/pioneering-danish-seismologist-inge-lehmann-celebrated-google-doodle-1501008
Know more:
http://www.physics.ucla.edu/~cwp/articles/bolt.html
#ingelehmann #science #womeninstem
I'm always glad when someone's controversial theory is verified within the person's lifetime. Vindication is sweet. Alfred Wegener, for instance, died well before plate tectonics was considered anything but a crackpot idea.
ReplyDeleteThe science community can be quite closed minded at times. Theories come out that challenge the status quo, but can be dismissed. It is often when you challenge what is thought to be undeniable that major breakthroughs take place. Radical ideas change the world
ReplyDeleteOh, Corina Marinescu you bring me the best stuff. STEM women rule!!!
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