Born: 23 January 1907 · Died: 8 September 1981 · Age: 74
Quick facts
Date of birth23 January 1907
Date of death8 September 1981
Age at death74
NationalityJapanese
BirthplaceAzabu, Japan
Editor's Take:
Yukawa transformed particle physics by daring to predict an entirely new particle when direct evidence seemed impossible. His meson hypothesis bridged quantum mechanics and nuclear structure at a time when Japan's scientific community remained relatively isolated. The twelve-year gap between prediction and experimental confirmation tested his resolve. Beyond research, he championed international scientific cooperation and nuclear disarmament through the Russell-Einstein Manifesto. His decision to adopt his wife's surname reflected traditional Japanese custom but also symbolised his commitment to family over individual legacy. Establishing a dedicated research institute ensured his theoretical approach would outlive him.
Key Milestones
1935: Published theory predicting mesons and nuclear forces
1938: Earned doctorate from Osaka Imperial University
1949: Won Nobel Prize after meson discovery
1955: Signed manifesto advocating global nuclear disarmament
Hideki Yukawa (湯川 秀樹, Yukawa Hideki; né Ogawa; 23 January 1907 – 8 September 1981) was a Japanese theoretical physicist who received the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1949 "for his prediction of the existence of mesons on the basis of theoretical work on nuclear forces."
