Nicolas Léonard Sadi Carnot vs William James Sidis

Who Was the Greater Genius? A Complete Comparison

Nicolas Léonard Sadi Carnot
IQ190
Born1796
Died1832
OriginPalais du Petit-Luxembourg, Paris, France
Known ForCarnot cycle <br> Carnot efficiency <br> Carnot theorem<br> Carnot heat engine
VS
William James Sidis
IQ250
Born1898
Died1944
OriginManhattan, New York City, U.S.
Known ForThe Animate And The Inanimate

About Nicolas Léonard Sadi Carnot

A French mechanical engineer in the French Army, military scientist and physicist, and often described as the "father of thermodynamics."

Read full biography of Nicolas Léonard Sadi Carnot → · In-Depth Article →

About William James Sidis

American child prodigy

THE FREE TEST
How high is yours?

Twenty questions, eight minutes on the clock, and a percentile measured against everyone who has taken it. No sign-up.

Take the IQ test →

Read full biography of William James Sidis → · In-Depth Article →

The Verdict

Based on estimated IQ scores, William James Sidis (IQ 250) ranks higher than Nicolas Léonard Sadi Carnot (IQ 190). However, both made extraordinary contributions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who had a higher IQ — Nicolas Léonard Sadi Carnot or William James Sidis?

Nicolas Léonard Sadi Carnot had an estimated IQ of 190 while William James Sidis had an estimated IQ of 250.

What is each genius known for?

Nicolas Léonard Sadi Carnot is known for: Carnot cycle <br> Carnot efficiency <br> Carnot theorem<br> Carnot heat engine. William James Sidis is known for: The Animate And The Inanimate.

Are both considered geniuses?

Yes. Both Nicolas Léonard Sadi Carnot and William James Sidis are universally regarded as among history's greatest intellects.

Full Profile: Nicolas Léonard Sadi CarnotFull Profile: William James Sidis

← Browse all genius comparisons | IQ Rankings

01 · VS

Trending Comparisons

02 · TOP 100

Top IQ Rankings

03 · PRODIGIES

Child prodigies

Child prodigies →
04 · WORLD

Explore geniuses by country

Play & come back tomorrow

Daily Genius Challenge · Odd one out
Which number does NOT belong? 8, 27, 64, 100, 125
Tap your answer ↓
Which Genius Are You? Free IQ Test