Max Planck delivered a groundbreaking presentation at the German Physical Society in Berlin, focusing on his theoretical derivation of black-body radiation. This work stemmed from his attempts to resolve the ultraviolet catastrophe, a problem in classical physics concerning the prediction of radiation emitted by black bodies. Planck’s innovative approach proposed that electromagnetic energy could be emitted only in quantized form, meaning energy is released in discrete packets or 'quanta' rather than as a continuous flow. He introduced a new constant, now known as Planck’s constant, to quantify these energy levels.

The significance of this presentation extends beyond the bounds of classical physics. By introducing a mathematical relationship between temperature and emitted radiation, Planck formally laid the groundwork for what would evolve into quantum mechanics. The implications of his findings were immense, providing insights that would later influence key figures in physics, including Albert Einstein, who applied these concepts to his theory of the photoelectric effect, further solidifying the quantum revolution.

Planck's work initially faced resistance from the scientific community, which largely held on to classical interpretations of physics. Nevertheless, over time, his ideas gained acceptance, leading to a profound transformation in the field and enabling advancements in numerous areas of technology and science.