John Dalton
John Dalton (6 September 1766–27 July 1844) was a British chemist and physicist. He was born in Cumberland to a Quaker family. He is best known for his discoveries in atomic theory. He also made the first important studies of color blindness.
Dalton's atomic theory
Dalton's Atomic theory is a scientific theory about atoms. Dalton made the theory to explain why the elements would combine in certain ways[1] The idea of atoms was already known at the time, but not widely accepted. Dalton's theory of atoms was based on actual observation. Ideas about atoms were based on philosophy before John Dalton came up with his theory.
His theory stated that:
- Atoms cannot be divided[2]
- Everything is made of atoms[2]
- Atoms can not be made or destroyed, just as energy
- Atoms are tiny particles[2]
- Atoms can only be joined in special ratios
- Atoms of the same element are the same, because they have the same atomic mass[2]
- Chemical reactions are made when atoms are moved around, put with other atoms or taken away from a group of other atoms
Further readings
- Claus Bernet: John Dalton (1766-1844), in: Biographisches-bibliographisches Kirchenlexikon, 31, 2010, 309-332.
John Dalton Media
Historical plaque marking birthplace of John Dalton
- Plaque marking the birthplace of John Dalton, Eaglesfield (geograph 4245539).jpg
Modern plaque marking birthplace of John Dalton
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1793 copy of Dalton's first publication, "Meteorological Observations and Essays"
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Profile of John Dalton
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Various atoms and molecules as depicted in John Dalton's A New System of Chemical Philosophy (1808)
- John Dalton by Thomas Phillips, 1835.jpg
Dalton in later life by Thomas Phillips, National Portrait Gallery, London (1835)
- Dalton John Chantrey bust.jpg
Bust of Dalton by Chantrey, 1854
- John Dalton statue Manchester City Hall 20051020.jpg
Statue of Dalton by Chantrey
- John Dalton Street Blue Plaque Manchester.jpg
A blue plaque on John Dalton Street in Manchester from the Royal Society of Chemistry
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1793 copy of Dalton's "Meteorological Observations and Essays"
References
Other websites
- John Dalton -Citizendium