He developed the general theory of relativity,
one of the two pillars of modern physics (alongside quantum mechanics).
Einstein's work is also known for its influence on the philosophy
of science.
Einstein is best known in popular culture for his mass–energy
equivalence formula E = mc2 (which has been dubbed "the world's
most famous equation"). He received the 1921 Nobel Prize
in Physics for his "services to theoretical physics",
in particular his discovery of the law of the photoelectric effect,
a pivotal step in the evolution of quantum theory.
Near the beginning of his career, Einstein thought that Newtonian
mechanics was no longer enough to reconcile the laws of classical
mechanics with the laws of the electromagnetic field. This led
to the development of his special theory of relativity. He realized,
however, that the principle of relativity could also be extended
to gravitational fields...In 1917, Einstein applied the general
theory of relativity to model the large-scale structure of the
universe.
On the eve of World War II, he endorsed a letter to President
Franklin D. Roosevelt alerting him to the potential development
of "extremely powerful bombs of a new type" and recommending
that the U.S. begin similar research. This eventually led to what
would become the Manhattan Project.
Einstein refused surgery in the end, saying: "I want to
go when I want. It is tasteless to prolong life artificially.
I have done my share, it is time to go. I will do it elegantly."
He died in Princeton Hospital early the next morning at the age
of 76, having continued to work until near the end.
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