Meaning: The quote you've provided is from Walter Kohn, a physicist renowned for his work in the field of condensed matter physics and his development of the density functional theory. The quote reflects Kohn's experience working for a small Canadian company that was involved in developing electrical instruments for military planes.

Walter Kohn's work experience at the Canadian company during his summers and part-time during the school year likely had a significant impact on his career and contributions to physics. His time at the company would have provided him with practical experience in applying his knowledge of physics to real-world engineering challenges, particularly in the context of military technology.

Working for a small Canadian company that specialized in developing electrical instruments for military planes would have exposed Kohn to a range of technical, engineering, and practical considerations. This experience likely influenced his understanding of the practical applications of physics and the importance of technological innovations in military and defense contexts.

Kohn's work at the company may have involved tasks such as designing and testing electrical instruments, troubleshooting technical issues, and collaborating with engineers and other professionals to ensure the reliability and functionality of the instruments for military aircraft. This hands-on experience would have provided Kohn with insights into the intersection of physics, engineering, and military technology.

The quote is significant in that it sheds light on the formative experiences of a renowned physicist and Nobel laureate. Kohn's time at the Canadian company likely played a role in shaping his perspective on the practical applications of physics and the importance of technological innovation in specialized domains such as military aviation.

It's important to note that Kohn's experience at the Canadian company occurred during a time when military technology was rapidly evolving, particularly in the context of aircraft instrumentation and electrical systems. The insights and knowledge gained during his time at the company would have informed Kohn's future research and contributions to the field of physics.

In summary, Walter Kohn's quote about working for a small Canadian company that developed electrical instruments for military planes provides valuable insight into the practical experiences that influenced his career as a physicist. The quote underscores the intersection of physics and real-world engineering challenges, particularly in the context of military technology and defense applications. Kohn's formative experiences at the company likely played a role in shaping his understanding of the practical applications of physics and the importance of technological innovation in specialized domains.