Gunnar Nilson

Swedish chemist known for his work on rare earth elements

Lars Gunnar Edvard Nilson (27 May 1840 – 14 May 1899) was a prominent Swedish chemist renowned for his discovery of the element scandium. His work significantly contributed to the field of inorganic chemistry, particularly in the study of rare earth elements.

Early Life and Education

Lars Gunnar Edvard Nilson was born in Skönberga, Östergötland County, Sweden. He pursued his early education in Sweden, demonstrating a keen interest in the natural sciences. Nilson later attended Uppsala University, where he studied under the tutelage of several notable chemists of the time. His academic prowess earned him a doctorate in chemistry, setting the stage for his future contributions to the field.

Career

Nilson began his professional career at Uppsala University, where he worked as a lecturer and researcher. His early research focused on the analysis and classification of minerals, which led him to the study of rare earth elements. Nilson's meticulous approach to chemical analysis and his innovative methods in isolating elements were highly regarded by his peers.

Discovery of Scandium

Lars Gunnar Edvard Nilson

In 1879, Nilson made his most significant contribution to chemistry with the discovery of scandium. While analyzing the minerals euxenite and gadolinite, he identified a new element, which he named scandium after Scandinavia. This discovery was pivotal as it confirmed the predictions made by Dmitri Mendeleev regarding the existence of an element with properties similar to those of scandium.

Later Work and Legacy

Following his discovery of scandium, Nilson continued to work on the separation and identification of rare earth elements. His research contributed to the understanding of the complex chemistry of these elements, which are now known to be critical in various modern technologies.

Nilson's work laid the groundwork for future research in the field of inorganic chemistry and the study of rare earth elements. His methods and findings are still referenced in contemporary chemical research and education.

Personal Life

Nilson was known for his dedication to his work and his students. He was a respected figure in the academic community, admired for his intellectual rigor and his contributions to the advancement of chemistry.

Related Pages

• Scandium
• Rare earth element
• Dmitri Mendeleev
• Uppsala University