Editor's Notes:
Season 3 of the educational science program "Mr. Science" has started to air on Beijing Radio and Television Station (BRTV) every Tuesday at 21:05 since July 30, 2024. Each episode features a prominent Chinese scientist who imparts wisdom and experiences to a group of university and middle school students known as the "Future Team," fostering an engaging learning environment. Here are the stories of these distinguished scientists.
In the history of Chinese science, many remarkable individuals have made significant contributions to the progress of technology and research. Among them, Academician Chen Jia'er stands out as a shining figure. He has not only achieved excellence in the field of accelerator physics but also played a vital role in education and talent cultivation.
Born in 1934 into a family of intellectuals, Chen Jia'er was greatly influenced by his father, Chen Bochui, a renowned children's literature author often referred to as the " the Anderson of the East." His father's approach to scientific education left a lasting impression on him.
One stormy night, young Chen Jia'er, frightened by the thunder, sought comfort from his father who then took the opportunity to explain the scientific reality of thunder and lightning and conduct a simple experiment on "static electricity." This experience ignited Chen Jia'er's curiosity about science and the natural world.
Through this engaging and educational approach, Chen Bochui planted a seed of scientific inquiry in the young mind of Chen Jia’er. He often reminded Chen Jia’er to "save the nation through science and technology" and to "make contributions to the country." These words remained deeply ingrained in Chen Jia'er's heart.
Journey into science and accelerator physics
In 1955, when China set its sights on developing atomic energy, recent graduate Chen Jia’er was handpicked to help build the Physics Research Laboratory at Peking University from scratch, which became the first training ground for atomic energy professionals in the country.
The challenging environment meant little existing research to draw upon, and Chen often stayed at the lab overnight, working tirelessly until the early hours to meet deadlines. His dedication was fueled by a strong sense of national responsibility and the understanding of nuclear technology's vital role in revitalizing China.
A landmark achievement in Chen's career is the construction of the 4.5MV electrostatic accelerator at Peking University. This 8-meter-tall, 30-ton machine, nearly 50 years old, serves as a cornerstone of the State Key Laboratory of Nuclear Physics and Technology. Constructed over six years in the 1970s, it significantly increased voltage capabilities and expanded research possibilities in China, addressing critical needs in the monochromatic neutron energy range essential for national defense.
Despite being 90 years old, Chen still personally leads the "Future Team" on tours of the accelerator building at Peking University. As he approached the building, he looked forward with anticipation. For him, this facility is not just a workplace but a "home" where he realized his dreams over decades.
Upon seeing the 2x6MV series electrostatic accelerator, which has accompanied him for many years, memories flooded back. Half a century ago, while visiting the University of Oxford and Rutherford Laboratory, Chen made a significant impact by identifying key issues in the vacuum box structure of the accelerator's analyzing magnet. Subsequently, he was given a long-standing unresolved problem at Rutherford Laboratory, which he solved within a year. The then-team leader John Copland praised him, saying, "You are the king of Harmonic Acceleration." In that moment, Chen felt a deep sense of national pride, proving that "Chinese scientists are just as capable," thereby reshaping foreign scholars' perceptions of Chinese researchers.
Twenty years later, when the University of Oxford decided to transfer the accelerator, many countries were interested in acquiring it. However, due to Chen's earlier contributions, he was given priority to receive the $2.5 million scientific device as a gift.
Originally slated for retirement, the accelerator found a new lease on life at Peking University. Chen and his team devoted 10 years to developing accelerator mass spectrometry.
Given that the dating of artifacts from the Xia, Shang, and Zhou dynasties has always been challenging due to the lack of historical data, Chen's team utilized high-energy particles generated by the accelerator to precisely analyze carbon-14 in these artifacts, successfully determining their ages within a 30-year margin of error. This achievement not only filled gaps in archaeology but also provided valuable insights into the origins and development of Chinese civilization.
Legacy and Impact
Throughout his career, Academician Chen Jia'er has remained dedicated to the idea of national rejuvenation, often reflecting on his commitments to serve his country through science. He has inspired countless students and researchers, instilling in them the values of hard work, innovation, and patriotism. His emphasis on accelerators as "devices that reach the heavens and stand on the earth" symbolizes the balance between cutting-edge scientific exploration and practical applications for society.
Now at the age of 90, even after officially retiring at 84, Chen continues to engage in scientific research, exemplifying a lifelong dedication to learning and discovery. His contributions to accelerator physics and his role as an educator have left an indelible mark on both the scientific community and the nation, securing his legacy as a pioneer in the field. Through his relentless pursuit of knowledge and innovation, Chen Jia'er has played a crucial role in advancing China's scientific landscape and will inspire future generations of scientists for years to come.