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This test consists of 5 short answer questions, 10 short essay questions, and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. Based on Einstein's work, scientists follow clues on atomic energy and eventually learn how to do what?

2. In the last few pages of Chapter One, how long does Einstein say it takes for him to gain a world reputation?

3. The reader learns that Einstein helps a girl understand a math question. How is she going to repay him for his help?

4. In 1905, why don't other scientists know whether or not Einstein is correct?

5. Toward the end of Chapter Two, Hermann finds Albert awake when he goes to check on the boy. Why does Albert say he's still awake?

Short Essay Questions

1. Why does Einstein not enjoy giving interviews?

2. Describe Mileva Maritsch's frustrations with her marriage to Einstein. Is it Einstein with whom she is displeased, or something else?

3. Why is the job at the Patent Office a good position for Einstein? Explain.

4. The reader learns that Einstein's work eventually leads other scientists to create the atom bomb. Why?

5. Why is Einstein asked not to return to the Luitpold Gymnasium?

6. Why does the author specifically mention that Einstein answers the strange boy on the porch in German?

7. Why do Michelson and Morley assume that their experiments are a failure?

8. Explain what happens to the group of German astronomers who plan to check Einstein's theory on light rays by observing a total eclipse.

9. In what ways is Elsa just what Einstein needs? Explain.

10. As Einstein starts receiving professorships, why is Mileva still frustrated with their financial situation?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Compare and contrast Einstein's relationship with Germany from his early days as a professor to his final days in America. How does the relationship change? How do the attitudes of the common people change? Is Einstein responsible in any way for his status, or is he purely a victim of circumstance?

Essay Topic 2

What kind of woman is Mileva Maritsch? Does the author present her fairly? Compare and contrast the author's portrait of Mileva with your own research. In what ways are the accounts of her similar, and in what ways do they differ?

Essay Topic 3

Einstein builds on Newton's ideas. Pick one modern-day scientist who makes a career of building on Einstein's ideas, and discuss the ways in which Einstein's theories are updated from the 20th to the 21st century.

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