Thermodynamics: Founders and Flounderers
In 1875 when the seventeen-year old, Max Planck (1858 – 1947), applied to Professor Gustav Kirchhoff (1824 – 1887) of the University of Berlin to study physics with him, the eminent professor told him quite frankly, "Why do you want to come into physics? All is done and understood." Since Planck did not think he had enough talent for his other choice, a career in music, he went against the professor's advice and continued with physics…