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Gilbert LewisOutstanding American physical chemist.
Date of Birth: 23.10.1875
Country:  USA |
Content:
Biography of Gilbert Lewis
Early Life and EducationGilbert Lewis was an exceptional American physical chemist. He was born on October 23, 1875, in Weymouth, Massachusetts. In his early years, Lewis was homeschooled by his parents, and he learned to read by the age of three. At the age of nine, he enrolled in school in Lincoln, Nebraska, and at fourteen, he entered the University of Nebraska. After three years, he transferred to Harvard University, where he completed his bachelor's degree in 1896.
Academic Achievements
After completing his undergraduate studies, Lewis pursued a doctoral degree at Harvard University. Under the guidance of Theodore Richards, he wrote and defended his dissertation in 1899. During this time, Lewis published his first scientific article in 1898, focusing on the thermochemical and electrochemical properties of amalgams.
In 1904, Lewis left Harvard University and held the position of Director of Weights and Measures in Manila, Philippines. The following year, he became a professor at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and joined a talented group of physical chemists led by Arthur A. Noyes. Lewis worked intensively at MIT for seven years, primarily focusing on determining standard electrode potentials.
Contributions to Chemistry
In 1912, Lewis moved to Berkeley and became the head of the Chemistry Department and Dean at the University of California. He formulated the idea that covalent chemical bonds are formed through the sharing of electron pairs between atoms, now known as Lewis electron-pair theory. This theory, along with his concept of the octet rule, revolutionized the understanding of chemical bonding.
Lewis also made significant contributions to the field of acid-base chemistry. In 1923, he developed the Lewis theory of acids and bases, which defined acids as electron-pair acceptors and bases as electron-pair donors. His book, "The Valence and Structure of Atoms and Molecules" published in 1923, became a classic in the field.
Throughout his career, Lewis conducted extensive research on various topics, including the magnetic properties of oxygen, the purest form of heavy water (oxide of deuterium), and the study of isotopes. He also collaborated with Ernest Lawrence on the development of the cyclotron and conducted experiments on elementary particle collisions.
Later Life and Legacy
In addition to his scientific achievements, Lewis played an active role in World War I as the leader of a chemical defense unit in France. He received the American Medal for Distinguished Service and the French Legion of Honor for his outstanding service.
Gilbert Lewis passed away on March 23, 1946, from a heart attack in his laboratory. His contributions to chemistry were immense, and he is considered one of the most prominent American physical chemists. Lewis's research, theories, and teachings inspired numerous scientists, and he mentored 289 Ph.D. students and 20 Nobel laureates during his time as the head of the Chemistry Department at the University of California, Berkeley.
Lewis's work continues to be influential in the field of chemistry, and his ideas and theories are still widely studied and applied today. He left an indelible mark on the scientific community and will be remembered as a pioneer in physical chemistry.
