Bose's derivation, the crucial link to quantum mechanics

TL;DR

This paper explores why Bose's derivation of the Planck formula took so long to be recognized and how Bose's work influenced the development of quantum mechanics, emphasizing the historical context and significance.

Contribution

It offers hypotheses on the delayed recognition of Bose's derivation and highlights its impact on Einstein's acceptance of de Broglie's thesis and quantum mechanics.

Findings

Bose's derivation was crucial for quantum theory development.

Timing of Bose's communication influenced Einstein's acceptance of de Broglie.

Historical analysis sheds light on the progression of quantum mechanics.

Abstract

In this brief note I address the question not frequently asked, namely, why did it take two decades between Einstein's first proposal of photons and derivation of the full Planck formula from first principles of Statistical Mechanics, albeit with a fundamental new approach to counting of states. Secondly, why did it fall to an independent inquirer, S. N. Bose, in far away Dacca to arrive at the correct derivation of this formula, arguably a most crucial one of the first half of the twentieth century? Reasonable hypotheses are proposed for answers to both. I also argue that the timing of Bose's communication to Einstein played a crucial role in Einstein's approval of de Broglie's thesis and hence the emergence of the definitive version of quantum mechanics in the late 1920's.