Core Points - The article discusses the significance of the work of physicist Yang Zhenning, emphasizing the importance of his contributions to theoretical physics and their impact on human understanding of the universe [2][11][43] - It highlights two major achievements: the proposal of "parity non-conservation" with Li Zhengdao and the development of the "Yang-Mills theory" [22][24][27] Group 1: Importance of Physics - Physics is described as a fundamental science with the mission to explore the essence of the world [5][30] - The article uses analogies to illustrate how advancements in physics provide a better understanding of the universe, comparing historical and modern tools [4][8] Group 2: Yang Zhenning's Contributions - Yang Zhenning and Li Zhengdao's 1956 paper challenged the established notion of "parity conservation," leading to their Nobel Prize win [18][22] - The "Yang-Mills theory" is recognized as a significant theoretical framework that attempts to unify the four fundamental forces of nature [26][27] Group 3: Impact on Chinese Science - Yang Zhenning's return to China in 1971 is noted as a pivotal moment for the development of theoretical physics in the country, helping to elevate its status to a world-class level [29][34] - His contributions are credited with fostering the growth of numerous academicians and enhancing research facilities in Chinese universities [34][37] Group 4: Future Implications - The article stresses the necessity of foundational research in physics for future technological advancements, particularly in areas like controlled nuclear fusion and high-temperature superconductors [40][41] - It concludes that Yang Zhenning's work is essential for addressing deeper scientific questions that transcend national boundaries, serving humanity as a whole [43][45]

Core Viewpoint - Yang Zhenning is a prominent figure in both Chinese and global scientific communities, known for his significant contributions to physics and his role in fostering academic exchanges between China and the West [1][3][4]. Early Life and Education - Yang Zhenning was born in Hefei and spent his early years in a scholarly environment, influenced by his father, who was the first Chinese to earn a Ph.D. in mathematics from the University of Chicago [1][6]. - He attended the National Southwestern Associated University during World War II, where he shifted his focus from chemistry to physics, laying the groundwork for his future contributions [7][9]. Scientific Contributions - Yang Zhenning's major scientific achievements include the parity non-conservation theory, Yang-Mills theory, and the Yang-Baxter equation, which are considered foundational in modern physics [10][14][15]. - The parity non-conservation theory, developed with Li Zhengdao, challenged the long-held belief in parity conservation in weak interactions, leading to Yang's Nobel Prize in Physics in 1957 [11][13]. - The Yang-Mills theory unified the electromagnetic, weak, and strong forces, providing a mathematical framework for the Standard Model of particle physics [14]. - The Yang-Baxter equation opened new avenues in mathematical physics, influencing numerous fields and recognized by multiple Fields Medalists [15]. Aesthetic and Cultural Integration - Yang Zhenning emphasized the beauty in physics, equating the pursuit of scientific truth with artistic appreciation, and categorized beauty into three levels: phenomenological, descriptive, and structural [17][18]. - His work reflects a blend of Eastern and Western cultural influences, showcasing a deep respect for traditional Chinese values while engaging with modern scientific paradigms [18][20]. Later Life and Contributions to Education - After returning to China, Yang Zhenning dedicated himself to advancing Chinese science and education, taking on roles at Tsinghua University and other institutions to foster research and attract talent [20][21]. - He established platforms for collaboration between Chinese scholars and international academia, significantly impacting the development of basic sciences in China [20][21].

Core Viewpoint - The article commemorates the life and achievements of renowned physicist Yang Chen-Ning, highlighting his contributions to physics, his role in enhancing Chinese national pride, and his dedication to education and scientific development in China [1][31]. Group 1: Early Life and Education - Yang Chen-Ning was born in 1922 in Hefei, Anhui, and moved to Tsinghua University at the age of 7, where he developed a strong foundation in science [1][4]. - He attended Southwest Associated University, where he initially enrolled in the chemistry department but was encouraged to switch to physics, leading to significant academic growth [8][9]. Group 2: Scientific Contributions - In 1956, Yang and Li Zhengdao proposed the theory of "parity violation in weak interactions," which was later confirmed experimentally, fundamentally changing the understanding of particle physics [16][17][26]. - Yang received the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1957 at the age of 35, becoming the first Chinese laureate in this field, which served as a source of national pride for China [1][17][26]. Group 3: Personal Philosophy and Legacy - Yang emphasized that his most significant contribution was helping to change the mindset of Chinese people regarding their capabilities in science [18][31]. - He returned to China in 1971 and became a vital bridge between China and the United States, promoting scientific collaboration and education [23][24]. Group 4: Later Life and Reflections - Yang published works reflecting on his life and the progress of China, expressing hope for the future and the importance of scientific advancement [28][30]. - He remained active in academia and continued to inspire students and young scientists until his passing in 2025 at the age of 103 [1][31].

Core Insights - Renowned physicist Yang Zhenning passed away on October 18, 2025, in Beijing at the age of 103, shortly after celebrating his birthday [1] - Yang Zhenning was a Nobel Prize winner in Physics, an academician of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, and held prestigious positions at Tsinghua University [3] Contributions to Physics - Yang Zhenning was known for his groundbreaking work on the "parity violation" theory, which he proposed in 1957, leading to a Nobel Prize shared with fellow scientist Li Zhengdao [3] - The "parity violation" theory revolutionized the understanding of fundamental symmetries in nature and laid the groundwork for the development of the particle physics standard model [3] - Alongside Robert Mills, Yang Zhenning developed the "Yang-Mills theory," a cornerstone of the particle physics standard model, which has influenced various fields of mathematics and physics [4] Impact on Chinese Science - After returning to China in the 1970s, Yang Zhenning played a significant role in advancing Chinese physics and fostering international scientific exchanges [4] - He settled at Tsinghua University in 2003, dedicating his efforts to leading basic scientific research and nurturing young talent [5] - Yang Zhenning believed his most important contribution was enhancing the self-confidence of the Chinese people through his scientific achievements [5]

Core Points - Yang Zhenning, a renowned physicist and Nobel laureate, passed away on October 18, 2025, at the age of 103 [1] - He was born in 1922 in Anhui and graduated from Southwest Associated University in 1942, later studying at the University of Chicago [3] - Yang Zhenning is best known for his theory of "parity violation," which he proposed in 1957, leading to a Nobel Prize shared with fellow scientist Li Zhengdao [3][4] - His contributions significantly influenced the development of the Standard Model of particle physics and reshaped the understanding of fundamental symmetries in nature [3][4] - Yang Zhenning returned to China in 2003, dedicating his efforts to advancing basic scientific research and nurturing young talent at Tsinghua University [4] Summary by Sections Personal Background - Yang Zhenning was a prominent physicist and a member of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, serving as a professor at Tsinghua University [1][3] - He studied under Edward Teller, known as the "father of the hydrogen bomb," and worked at prestigious institutions including Princeton and Stony Brook [3] Scientific Contributions - He co-developed the "Yang-Mills theory," a cornerstone of the Standard Model, which is mathematically elegant and has influenced various fields in pure mathematics [4] - The "parity violation" theory he proposed was a pivotal moment in physics, fundamentally altering the perception of symmetry in the universe [3][4] Impact on China - Yang Zhenning played a crucial role in fostering scientific exchange between China and the West, especially after his return to China [4] - He emphasized the importance of boosting Chinese self-confidence through scientific achievements, considering this a significant contribution to his legacy [4]

Core Viewpoint - The article commemorates the life and contributions of Yang Zhenning, a renowned physicist and Nobel laureate, who passed away at the age of 103, highlighting his significant impact on physics and his deep connection to his homeland [1]. Group 1: Early Life and Education - Yang Zhenning was born in 1922 in Hefei, Anhui, and was influenced by his father, a scholar in modern number theory and algebra [2]. - He spent his childhood in Tsinghua Garden, where he developed an early interest in science, inspired by a book on the latest discoveries in physics [4]. - Yang Zhenning's education continued at Southwest Associated University during the war, where he excelled academically, ranking second among over 20,000 candidates [4]. Group 2: Academic Achievements - Yang Zhenning made groundbreaking contributions to physics, including the Yang-Mills theory and the theory of parity non-conservation in weak interactions, for which he received the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1957 [11][12]. - His work in statistical mechanics led to the development of the Yang-Baxter equation, earning him the Onsager Prize, a prestigious award in physics [12]. Group 3: Contributions to China’s Scientific Development - Yang Zhenning played a crucial role in bridging international scientific communities and introducing modern scientific concepts to China after returning in 1971 [15]. - He advocated for the importance of "developmental research" in China, influencing the country's "863 Program" aimed at advancing high-tech research [18]. - Yang Zhenning established the Tsinghua University Institute for Advanced Study, contributing significantly to the development of theoretical physics and mathematics in China [19]. Group 4: Educational Philosophy and Talent Development - He promoted ideas such as "generalist education" and hands-on training, recommending over 1,200 scholars for overseas training to enhance academic exchange [21]. - Yang Zhenning emphasized the need for strategic allocation of research funding, advising against investments in large particle colliders in favor of more pressing scientific fields [21]. Group 5: Legacy - Yang Zhenning's contributions extend beyond physics; he provided a strategic framework for respecting scientific principles and efficiently allocating technological resources, impacting future generations [23].

Core Viewpoint - The article commemorates the life and contributions of Yang Zhenning, a prominent Chinese theoretical physicist, who passed away at the age of 103, highlighting his significant impact on physics and education in China [1][3]. Contributions to Physics - Yang Zhenning was best known for his collaboration with Li Zhengdao in 1956, proposing the theory of parity violation in weak interactions, which fundamentally changed the understanding of basic symmetries in nature and is considered a milestone in 20th-century physics [3][4]. - He co-developed the Yang-Mills theory in 1954 with Robert Mills, which has had a profound influence on both fundamental physics and modern differential geometry, serving as the foundation for the Standard Model of particle physics [6]. - In 1967, he discovered the Yang-Baxter equation, which became a core tool for solving many integrable systems [6]. Educational Impact - Yang Zhenning was a significant educator, returning to China multiple times since the 1970s to introduce cutting-edge physical theories, such as gauge field theory and statistical mechanics [7]. - He played a crucial role in the establishment of the "Young Scholars Program" at the University of Science and Technology of China in 1978, which laid the groundwork for computer education in China [7]. - His influence extended to other scholars, such as Yao Qizhi, who returned to China to teach at Tsinghua University, inspired by Yang's encouragement [8]. Contributions to Chinese Higher Education - Yang Zhenning was instrumental in founding the Tsinghua University Institute for Advanced Study in 1997, attracting top international scholars to China [8]. - He actively supported the funding of the "Committee for Educational Exchange with China," which helped nearly a hundred Chinese scholars pursue studies in the United States, contributing to China's technological development [12]. - His efforts significantly impacted the reform and development of higher education in China, particularly in the fields of physics and basic sciences [12].

Core Viewpoint - The article commemorates the life and contributions of renowned physicist Yang Chen-Ning, who passed away at the age of 103, highlighting his significant impact on modern physics and his legacy in scientific research [2][19]. Group 1: Personal Background - Yang Chen-Ning was born in 1922 in Hefei, Anhui, graduated from Southwest Associated University in 1942, and obtained his master's degree in 1944 before pursuing further studies in the United States [8]. - He earned his Ph.D. from the University of Chicago in 1948 and conducted postdoctoral research at the Institute for Advanced Study in Princeton, collaborating with fellow physicist Li Zhengdao for over a decade [8]. Group 2: Major Contributions - Yang's most notable achievement is the discovery of parity non-conservation in weak interactions, which he and Li Zhengdao proposed in 1956, challenging the long-held belief in parity conservation in physics [10][11]. - The Yang-Mills theory, developed in 1954 with Robert Mills, extended the concept of gauge symmetry beyond electromagnetism, forming the mathematical foundation for the Standard Model of particle physics [13]. - He made foundational contributions to statistical mechanics and integrable systems, notably through the Yang-Baxter equation, which has widespread applications in various fields, including quantum field theory and condensed matter physics [14][16]. Group 3: Legacy and Impact - Yang returned to China in his later years, settling at Tsinghua University, where he continued to mentor future generations of scientists [17]. - In 2021, he donated over 2,000 valuable items, including books and manuscripts, to Tsinghua University, leaving a lasting intellectual legacy [17]. - His passing marks the end of an era in physics, but his scientific ideas will continue to guide future explorations of the universe [19].