Theoretical physics in Leiden
Lorentz studied mathematics and physics in Leiden, receiving his doctorate in 1875 for work on reflection and refraction. He became professor of theoretical physics in 1878 and extended Maxwell’s theory to optical and electrical phenomena in matter.
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Electron theory and the Zeeman effect
His electron theory connected currents and radiation with charged particles in matter. It explained aspects of the splitting and polarisation observed by Zeeman in 1896. Lorentz and Zeeman shared the 1902 physics prize, recognising complementary theoretical and experimental work.
Moving bodies and water engineering
Lorentz developed transformations while studying electromagnetic phenomena in moving bodies. His work retained an ether framework and should be distinguished from Einstein’s later formulation of special relativity. He also applied mathematical physics to water movements associated with the Zuiderzee engineering project.