-
Ernst Mach is born in Moravia on February 18, 1838
-
Ernst Mach moves along with his family to Untersiebenbrunn, Lower Austria.
-
Mach studies physics at the University of Vienna
-
Mach is offered a position as a professor of mathematics at the University of Graz
-
Ernst Mach, with a growing interest in physiology and psychology, discoverers the optical illusion that comes to be known as "Mach Bands". It can be see by the false bands of bright and dark color seen by the eye when looking at a gradient between two colors. This work would be foundational for his later works on theories of human perception and sensations. -
-
Mach accepts a position as a professor of experimental physics at Charles University. During this time period, he published numerous important scientific papers covering topics such as sound waves, movement, and optics. He worked on his most important accomplishment, working on the concepts of supersonic movement.
-
In this year, Ernst Mach publishes his book, "Analysis of Sensations" describing the phenomenon of sensation. Mach argues that knowledge comes from sensation and that scientific ideas can only come from experience. His ideas on perception and sensation that are published in this work would become founding early ideals of the Gestalt Theory that would follow not longer afterwards. Mach, Ernst. The Analysis of Sensations. 1897. -
-
One of Mach's most important works, the Science of Mechanics covers much of his views on the processes of science as well as its history. His work would become an extremely important influence on the later Vienna Circle, to the point that they themselves claim he is essentially their predecessor. Mach, Ernst. The Science of Mechanics: A Critical and Historical Account of Its Development. 1893.
-
-
Ernst Mach dies while living in Vaterstetten, Austria.