Brownian Motion

3D Visualization

This visualization demonstrates the random motion of particles suspended in a fluid, similar to what Robert Brown observed with pollen grains in water.

Historical Discovery

In 1827, botanist Robert Brown observed that pollen grains suspended in water moved in a random, zigzag pattern. This phenomenon, later named Brownian motion, provided crucial experimental evidence for the kinetic theory of matter.

Scientific Explanation

Einstein's 1905 theoretical explanation of Brownian motion showed that the random movement of suspended particles was caused by countless collisions with invisible water molecules. This work helped prove the existence of atoms and molecules.

Key Characteristics:

  • Random, irregular motion
  • Motion increases with temperature
  • Smaller particles show more vigorous motion
  • Motion is independent of time
  • Provides direct evidence for molecular motion