The Solvay Conferences on Physics

The historical account highlights the significant impact of the Solvay Conferences on modern physics, initiated by Ernest Solvay to address complex scientific issues through focused discussions among leading physicists. Unlike traditional meetings, these conferences aimed to tackle challenging problems in quantum mechanics, which were not yet fully understood by 1911. The narrative emphasizes the evolution of quantum theory, particularly during pivotal years like 1927, when the mathematical framework was solidifying, but interpretations remained debated, exemplified by Schrödinger's wave theory.