Quickphysik

Experiencing and understanding physics

Science Stories – Case studies from the history of physics

The development of physics is a fascinating journey through the history of thinking and experimenting. Every discovery has changed the way we see the world and has given us new tools to understand nature. In this section you will find case studies and materials for physics teaching that bring the history of science to life.

Kepler’s Moon Puzzle

Image of a crescent moon In 1600, Kepler observed a solar eclipse in Graz and recognized a fundamental problem. His solution continues to shape optics to this day — but how did he arrive at it? read more

Snellius’ Law of apparent depth

Illustration of apparent depth The law of refraction describes the change in the direction of light. In 1621, however, Snellius did not formulate it theoretically, but on the basis of empirical investigations of the phenomenon of apparent depth. read more