Michael Faraday
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Michael Faraday | |
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| Born | 22 September 1791 |
| Died | 25 August 1867 |
| Nationality | English |
| Occupation | Scientist; experimental physicist; chemist |
| Known for | Electromagnetism; electrochemistry |
| Notable work | Electromagnetic induction; Faraday’s laws of electrolysis |
Michael Faraday (1791–1867) was an English scientist whose experimental work laid the foundations of electromagnetism and electrochemistry. He is best known for discovering electromagnetic induction, which enabled the development of electric generators and transformers.
Faraday’s research emphasized experimentation and observation, and his work had lasting influence on both theoretical science and practical engineering.
Early life and education
Michael Faraday was born in London to a working-class family. He received little formal education and was largely self-taught.
Faraday began his scientific career as an assistant to Humphry Davy at the Royal Institution, where he gained access to laboratory facilities and scientific networks.
Experimental research
Faraday conducted extensive experiments on electricity and magnetism. He demonstrated that a changing magnetic field can induce an electric current, a principle known as electromagnetic induction.
This discovery formed the basis for electric motors and generators.
Electrochemistry
Faraday made important contributions to chemistry, including the formulation of laws describing the relationship between electrical charge and chemical reaction.
His work helped establish electrochemistry as a scientific discipline.
Scientific approach
Faraday favored experimental investigation over mathematical formalism. He introduced conceptual tools such as field lines to describe physical phenomena.
Although he used limited mathematics, his ideas were later expressed mathematically by other scientists.
Public engagement
Faraday was an influential public lecturer and educator. His lectures at the Royal Institution helped popularize science and made complex ideas accessible to broader audiences.
Legacy
Michael Faraday’s discoveries are foundational to modern electrical science and technology. His work influenced later scientists, including James Clerk Maxwell, who formalized electromagnetic theory.
Faraday is remembered for both his scientific achievements and his commitment to experimental clarity and public education.