Edward Frankland

Frankland Edward 26

Edward Frankland
Edward Frankland
Born	(1825-01-18)18 January 1825 Catterall, Lancashire, England
Died	9 August 1899(1899-08-09) (aged 74) Golaa, Norway
Nationality	British
Alma mater	University of Marburg
Known for	Valence theory, Organometallic chemistry
Awards	Royal Medal (1857), Copley Medal (1894)
Scientific career
Fields	Chemistry
Institutions	Royal Institution, Royal College of Chemistry, Royal School of Mines
Doctoral advisor	Robert Bunsen

Edward Frankland (18 January 1825 – 9 August 1899) was a prominent English chemist who made significant contributions to the field of chemistry, particularly in the areas of valence theory and organometallic chemistry. He was also a pioneer in the study of water quality and public health.

Early Life and Education

Edward Frankland was born in Catterall, Lancashire, England. He was educated at the University of Marburg in Germany, where he studied under the renowned chemist Robert Bunsen. Frankland received his doctorate in 1849.

Career

Frankland held several prestigious positions throughout his career. He worked at the Royal Institution, the Royal College of Chemistry, and the Royal School of Mines. His research significantly advanced the understanding of chemical bonding and valence.

Valence Theory

Frankland is best known for his work on valence theory, which describes the combining power of an element. His research laid the groundwork for the modern understanding of chemical bonding.

Organometallic Chemistry

Frankland was a pioneer in the field of organometallic chemistry. He discovered several important organometallic compounds and developed methods for their synthesis. His work in this area has had a lasting impact on both organic chemistry and inorganic chemistry.

Water Quality and Public Health

In addition to his work in theoretical chemistry, Frankland was deeply involved in the study of water quality and public health. He conducted extensive research on the contamination of drinking water and its effects on public health. His findings were instrumental in the development of modern water treatment methods.

Awards and Honors

Frankland received numerous awards for his contributions to chemistry. He was awarded the Royal Medal in 1857 and the Copley Medal in 1894. He was also a Fellow of the Royal Society.

Personal Life

Edward Frankland married Sophie Fick, the sister of the physiologist Adolf Fick. They had several children, including Percy Frankland, who also became a noted chemist.

Death

Frankland died on 9 August 1899 in Golaa, Norway.

Legacy

Edward Frankland's work has had a profound and lasting impact on the field of chemistry. His contributions to valence theory and organometallic chemistry continue to influence modern scientific research.

See Also

• Valence (chemistry)
• Organometallic chemistry
• Water quality
• Public health
• Royal Institution
• Royal College of Chemistry
• Royal School of Mines

References

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