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Are Atoms Real? (1957)
About this film
Are atoms real? Progress in the understanding of the physical universe depends on their reality. And yet, the most powerful microscope devised cannot see them. But then, you can't see the air you breathe. However, there are ways, demonstrated by Edwin C. Kemble (Professor of Physics, Emeritus, Harvard University), which suggest the reality of atoms. He shows to TV cameras the moving tracks left by atomic particles; you listen as particles from outer space bombard the television stage from which he speaks. Professor Le Corbeiller concludes by asking you to examine an ordinary apple, occupying a certain place in space, having weight and volume. He explains why, when reality is mentioned, apples are similar to atoms. (Description adapted from documents in the NET Microfiche)
Directors & creators
WGBH Educational Foundation
Subjects
public broadcasting, AAPB, Atoms, Atomic Theory, Philosophy of Science, History of Science, Scientific Realism, Epistemology, Metaphysics, Physics, Science Education, Perception, Reality vs. Appearance, Ancient Greek Philosophy, Nicolaus Copernicus, Galileo Galilei, Scientific Method, Observability, Theoretical Physics, Nature of Matter, Science Communication, Logic, Empiricism, 1950s Science
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