Zur Geschichte der Geophysik

Alfred Wegener's most important work, the theory of continental drift, has a key position in the history of geophysics and has crucially advanced the discussion of this central problem of geodynamics amongst supporters and adversaries. The aim of this paper is to paint a portrait of Wegener's personality, of his stations of life, and of his interests and research work. The conceptions of the origin of continents and oceans prior to Wegener, and the further development of his ideas after his death on the ice cup of Greenland 50 years ago are discussed.     

Aus der meereskundlichen Forschung

Some special German investigations of physical, chemical and radiological aspects of oceanography are described. The physical contributions deal with a cruise of the research vessel “Meteor” in the Icelandic region, the upwelling phenomenon, the relationship between large-scale meteorological and oceanographic processes, and ocean-wave research. As regards marine chemistry information is given on new developments in instruments which perform continuous and automatic analyses, with some practical applications. The radiological contribution concerns the oceanographic problems connected with the dumping of packed low-level radioactive wastes.     

Aus den frühen Tagen der Makromolekularen Chemie

Most branches of science pass through a “pioneering period” where different concepts and approaches create, for a while, a turbulent atmosphere until, on the basis of new experimental evidence, clear and durable principles emerge, which lead to a broad and continuous growth of basic understanding and practical application. The author of this article recalls how, temporarily, conflicting ideas created confusion in the chemistry and technology of giant molecules before these disciplines developed into what they are now: indispensable contributors to the comfort, safety and expansion of our society from medicine to astronautics.