Anders Jonas Angstrom

Anders Jonas Angstrom

Swedish physicist
Date of Birth: 13.08.1814
Country: Sweden

Content:
  1. Anders Jonas Ångström: A Pioneer in Spectroscopy
  2. Academic Career
  3. Contributions to Spectroscopy
  4. Other Scientific Endeavors
  5. Honors and Recognition
  6. Legacy

Anders Jonas Ångström: A Pioneer in Spectroscopy

Early Life and Education

Anders Jonas Ångström, born on August 13, 1814, in Lögdö, Sweden, was destined to become a renowned figure in the world of physics. He completed his studies at the University of Uppsala in 1839.

Academic Career

In 1858, Ångström was appointed professor and head of the Physics department at Uppsala University. From 1870 to 1871, he served as the university's rector.

Contributions to Spectroscopy

Ångström's pioneering work revolutionized the field of spectroscopy. In 1853, he proposed a fundamental principle in optical spectroscopy: incandescent gases emit light at the same wavelength they absorb. This discovery laid the foundation for modern spectroscopic techniques.

Through meticulous research, Ångström identified the hydrogen lines in the solar spectrum, establishing the presence of this element in the Sun's atmosphere. His 1868 publication of the "Atlas of the Solar Spectrum" became the definitive reference for spectral lines. He also studied the spectrum of the aurora borealis in 1867.

Other Scientific Endeavors

Beyond his spectroscopic achievements, Ångström investigated thermal conductivity and magnetism. He developed methods to measure the wavelength of light with remarkable precision.

Honors and Recognition

Ångström's contributions earned him international acclaim. In 1870, he was elected a Fellow of the Royal Society of London. He was also awarded the Rumford Medal in 1872.

Legacy

Ångström's name is forever inscribed in the annals of physics. The angstrom, a unit of length equal to 10^-8 centimeters, is named in his honor. His groundbreaking experiments continue to inspire and inform scientists to this day.

Anders Jonas Ångström passed away in Uppsala on June 21, 1874, leaving behind an enduring legacy in the field of spectroscopy and beyond.

© BIOGRAPHS