Irving Langmuir
Irving Langmuir | |
|---|---|
| Born | January 31, 1881 |
| Died | August 16, 1957 Falmouth, Massachusetts, U.S. |
| Nationality | American |
| Alma mater | Columbia University, Göttingen University |
| Known for | Surface chemistry, Langmuir isotherm, Langmuir-Blodgett film, Plasma physics |
| Awards | Nobel Prize in Chemistry (1932) |
| Scientific career | |
| Fields | Chemistry, Physics |
| Institutions | General Electric |
| Doctoral advisor | Walther Nernst |
Irving Langmuir (January 31, 1881 – August 16, 1957) was an American chemist and physicist. He was awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1932 for his work in surface chemistry. Langmuir's contributions to science include the development of the Langmuir isotherm, the invention of the Langmuir-Blodgett film, and significant advancements in plasma physics.
Early Life and Education[edit | edit source]
Langmuir was born in Brooklyn, New York City, and was the third of four sons. He attended Columbia University, where he earned his Bachelor of Science degree in 1903. He then went on to study under Walther Nernst at Göttingen University in Germany, where he received his Ph.D. in 1906.
Career[edit | edit source]
After completing his education, Langmuir joined the General Electric Research Laboratory in 1909. It was here that he conducted much of his groundbreaking research. His work on surface chemistry led to the development of the Langmuir isotherm, which describes the adsorption of molecules on solid surfaces.
Langmuir also made significant contributions to the field of plasma physics. He was the first to use the term "plasma" to describe ionized gases and developed the concept of the Langmuir probe, an instrument used to measure electron temperature and density in plasmas.
Major Contributions[edit | edit source]
Surface Chemistry[edit | edit source]
Langmuir's work in surface chemistry earned him the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1932. He developed the Langmuir isotherm, which is a model that explains how molecules adhere to surfaces. This work has had a profound impact on the fields of chemistry and materials science.
Langmuir-Blodgett Film[edit | edit source]
In collaboration with Katherine Blodgett, Langmuir developed the Langmuir-Blodgett film, a method for creating monolayers of molecules on a surface. This technique has applications in nanotechnology and materials science.
Plasma Physics[edit | edit source]
Langmuir's research in plasma physics led to the development of the Langmuir probe, an essential tool for diagnosing plasma conditions. His work laid the foundation for modern plasma research and has applications in fields ranging from fusion energy to space physics.
Personal Life[edit | edit source]
Langmuir married Marion Mersereau in 1912, and they had two children. He was known for his curiosity and enthusiasm for science, which extended beyond his professional work. Langmuir was also an avid mountain climber and enjoyed outdoor activities.
Legacy[edit | edit source]
Irving Langmuir's contributions to science have had a lasting impact on multiple fields. His work in surface chemistry, plasma physics, and the development of the Langmuir-Blodgett film continue to influence research and technology today.
Related Pages[edit | edit source]
- Surface chemistry
- Langmuir isotherm
- Langmuir-Blodgett film
- Plasma physics
- General Electric
- Nobel Prize in Chemistry
- Walther Nernst
- Katherine Blodgett
Categories[edit | edit source]
Template:Nobel Prize in Chemistry Laureate
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