Mathematical Heritage

Lie revolutionized the theory of differential equations through his theory of continuous transformation groups — the Lie groups. By studying the symmetries of equations, he unified analytic techniques for solving differential equations within a single conceptual framework.

Lie theory today forms the foundation of theoretical physics, underpinning general relativity, quantum field theory, and particle physics. Although his solution methods were too advanced for practical computation in the 19th century, the advent of computers transformed Lie's ideas into powerful tools for symbolic and numerical computation.

Modern research in algebra, geometry, and computational differential equations continues to draw on Lie theory as a unifying principle, advancing both pure mathematics and computational methods.

Størmer began his career in number theory and pure mathematics, but inspired by Kristian Birkeland's theory of the northern lights, he turned toward computational mathematics. Seeking to explain the aurora through the motion of charged particles in Earth's magnetic field, he developed the celebrated Størmer's method.

His work demonstrates how mathematical theory can illuminate practical problems in geophysics and computational physics.

Størmer's methods remain foundational for understanding charged particle motion and continue to influence modern computational approaches in physics and mathematics.