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She was a self-educated astronomer-mathematician in the 18th century. She maintained professional relations with Voltaire, Maupertuius and others. She translated Leibnitz and Newton, adding her commentary and explanations of the difficult passages. Her translation of Newton into French is still the version in use. Voltaire (known for his misogyny) wrote of her
two wonders have been performed: one that Newton was able to write this work, the other that a woman could translate and explain it."
Her views on the vis viva (momentum) opposed those of Newton. Hers ultimately proved to be correct.