MoM Ep13: Pierre-Simon Laplace

About this episode

This episode discusses the life and contributions of Pierre-Simon Laplace, a prominent French mathematician and physicist.

This podcast episode of Men of Mathematics discusses the life and work of Pierre-Simon Laplace, a French mathematician and physicist who made significant contributions to celestial mechanics, probability theory, and mathematical physics. Key Topics: Celestial Mechanics Probability Theory Laplace Transform Determinism Laplace's Equation Summary: Laplace, born in Normandy in 1749, quickly rose to prominence in the French scientific community. Patronage secured due to his mathematical abilities allowed him to move to Paris where he was soon presenting papers to the Academy of Sciences. D'Alembert, recognizing his genius, helped to launch his career. He skillfully navigated the tumultuous periods of the French Revolution, Napoleon's Empire, and the Bourbon Restoration, demonstrating political adaptability. Laplace briefly served as Minister of the Interior under Napoleon, who later quipped that he brought the spirit of infinitesimals into government, which was not intended as a compliment. Laplace made groundbreaking contributions to celestial mechanics. Addressing a question left open by Newton, he proved the stability of the solar system, demonstrating that planetary irregularities…

People in this episode

Hosts: Brian Hirschfield, Rob Hamilton

Topics covered

• Celestial Mechanics
• Probability Theory
• Mathematical Physics
• Determinism
• Laplace Transform

Keywords

• Laplace
• celestial mechanics
• probability theory
• mathematical physics
• nebular hypothesis
• solar system stability

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Academy of Sciences, Napoleon, Bourbon Restoration

Books & works: Mécanique Céleste

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