Newton taught that on the universal scale mathematics brings
light to physics; Van der Waals applied mathematics on the atomic
scale to explain the behavior of gases and the changes of state
from solid, to liquid, to gas. Results of physical experiments
demanding explanations suggest that an interplay between
mathematics and physics is essential.
Van der Waals was influenced by the thermodynamics of Rudolf
Clausius and the writings of James Clerk Maxwell, who praised his
work.
Newton taught that on the universal scale mathematics brings light to physics; Van der Waals applied mathematics on the atomic scale to explain the behavior of gases and the changes of state from solid, to liquid, to gas. Results of physical experiments demanding explanations suggest that an interplay between mathematics and physics is essential.
Van der Waals was influenced by the thermodynamics of Rudolf Clausius and the writings of James Clerk Maxwell, who praised his work.
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