Michael Faraday
Michael Faraday: A Life of Discovery and Innovation
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Full Name and Common Aliases
Michael Faraday was born on September 22, 1791, in Newington Butts, London, England. He is commonly referred to as the "father of electromagnetism" due to his groundbreaking work in the field.
Birth and Death Dates
Born: September 22, 1791
Died: August 25, 1867 (aged 75)
Nationality and Profession(s)
Michael Faraday was a British chemist and physicist who held various positions throughout his career. He worked as a laboratory assistant, a teacher, and a principal.
Early Life and Background
Faraday's early life was marked by poverty and limited access to education. His parents, James and Margaret Faraday, were both illiterate, but they encouraged their son's love of learning. At the age of 14, Michael began working as an errand boy for a local bookshop, where he devoured books on chemistry and physics.
In 1806, Faraday attended evening classes at the City of London College, which exposed him to the works of Humphry Davy, a prominent chemist. This encounter sparked Faraday's interest in scientific research, leading him to apply for an apprenticeship with Davy.
Major Accomplishments
Faraday's contributions to science are immeasurable. His most significant achievements include:
Discovery of electromagnetic induction: In 1831, Faraday demonstrated that a changing magnetic field can induce an electric current in a nearby conductor.
Development of the first electric motor: Building upon his discovery of electromagnetic induction, Faraday designed and constructed the first electric motor in 1821.
Invention of the Faraday cage: In 1836, Faraday created a device that distributes electromagnetic charges evenly around its surface, protecting against external electrical fields.Notable Works or Actions
Faraday's work extended beyond his scientific discoveries. He was an advocate for education and social reform. As a member of the Royal Institution, he delivered public lectures on science and its applications.
In 1824, Faraday married Sarah Barnard, with whom he had six children. His family life was marked by tragedy, including the loss of two sons at a young age.
Impact and Legacy
Michael Faraday's contributions to science have far-reaching consequences. His work laid the foundation for:
Electrical engineering: Faraday's discovery of electromagnetic induction enabled the development of electrical power systems.
Electronic devices: The invention of the electric motor and other electronic devices rely on Faraday's principles.
Faraday's legacy extends beyond his scientific contributions. He was a champion of education, advocating for access to knowledge for all. His work continues to inspire scientists, engineers, and innovators worldwide.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Michael Faraday is widely quoted and remembered due to his profound impact on science and society:
Visionary thinking: Faraday's ability to conceptualize complex ideas and principles has made him a role model for generations of scientists.
* Innovative spirit: His willingness to experiment and challenge established theories paved the way for groundbreaking discoveries.
Faraday's life serves as a testament to the power of curiosity, determination, and innovation. His legacy continues to inspire us today, reminding us that even the most seemingly impossible ideas can change the world.
Quotes by Michael Faraday
Michael Faraday's insights on:
Non saprei meglio terminare le nostre conversazioni che esprimendo il desiderio che possiate nella vostra esistenza meritare d’essere comparati ad una candela; che possiate com’essa brillare qual fiamma per coloro che vi circondano, che possiate in tutte le vostre azioni emulare la bellezza del lucignolo, adempiendo con onore ed efficacia i vostri doveri verso i vostri simili.
As when on some secluded branch in forest far and wide sits perched an owl, who, full of self-conceit and self-created wisdom, explains, comments, condemns, ordains and order things not understood, yet full of importance still holds forth to stocks and stones around – so sits and scribbles Mike.
No matter what you look at, if you look at it closely enough, you are involved in the entire universe.
Do not refer to your toy-books, and say you have seen that before. Answer me rather, if I ask you, have you understood it before?
Physicist is both to my mouth and ears so awkward that I think I shall never use it. The equivalent of three separate sounds of “I” in one word is too much.
The Bible, and it alone, with nothing added to it nor taken away from it by man, is the sole and sufficient guide for each individual, at all times and in all circumstances.
There is no more open door by which you can enter into the study of natural philosophy than by considering the physical phenomena of a candle.
I am busy just now again on Electro-Magnetism and think I have got hold of a good thing but can’t say; it may be a weed instead of a fish that after all my labour I may at last pull up.
It is on record that when a young aspirant asked Faraday the secret of his success as a scientific investigator, he replied, ‘The secret is comprised in three words- Work, Finish, Publish.’
I am no poet, but if you think for yourselves, as I proceed, the facts will form a poem in your minds.