杨振宁先生生平

Core Viewpoint - The article commemorates the life and achievements of Yang Zhenning, a renowned physicist and Nobel laureate, who passed away at the age of 103, highlighting his significant contributions to modern physics and his impact on scientific development in China [1][27]. Biography Summary - Yang Zhenning was born on October 1, 1922, in Hefei, Anhui, and spent his early years in Tsinghua University, where his father was a professor [2]. - He graduated from Southwest Associated University in 1942 and later pursued further studies at the University of Chicago, earning his Ph.D. in 1948 [5][10]. - Yang Zhenning made groundbreaking contributions to physics, including the Yang-Mills theory and the concept of parity violation in weak interactions, for which he received the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1957 [12][17]. Academic Contributions - The Yang-Mills theory, proposed in 1954, is considered a cornerstone of modern physics and laid the foundation for the Standard Model of particle physics [12]. - His work on parity violation with Li Zhengdao led to significant advancements in the understanding of fundamental particles [17]. - Yang Zhenning's discovery of the Yang-Baxter equation in 1967 opened new avenues in statistical physics and quantum theory [20]. Influence on Science and Education - Yang Zhenning played a crucial role in promoting scientific exchange between China and the United States, especially during the normalization of relations in the 1970s [21][22]. - He established several initiatives to support Chinese scholars and contributed to the development of theoretical physics research institutions in China [22][23]. - After returning to Tsinghua University in 1999, he continued to influence education and research, significantly impacting the development of various scientific disciplines [23]. Legacy - Yang Zhenning is recognized as one of the greatest physicists of the 20th century, with numerous accolades, including membership in various prestigious academies and over 20 honorary doctorates [27]. - His life and work symbolize a bridge between Eastern and Western cultures, embodying a commitment to scientific exploration and national pride [28].