A British chemist and academic who was awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1967 for his work on flash photolysis, a technique used to study fast chemical reactions. He made significant contributions to the understanding of chemical kinetics and reaction mechanisms.
George Porter, a British chemist, is renowned for his groundbreaking work in the field of chemistry, earning him the prestigious Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1967. His pioneering research in flash photolysis, a technique used to study short-lived molecular species, has had a profound impact on our understanding of chemical reactions and their applications.
Born on December 6, 1920, in Stainforth, near Thorne, in the then West Riding of Yorkshire, Porter's fascination with chemistry began at an early age. He was educated at Thorne Grammar School and later won a scholarship to the University of Leeds, where he earned his first degree in chemistry. Under the guidance of Meredith Gwynne Evans, whom he described as the most brilliant chemist he had ever met, Porter's passion for chemistry only grew stronger.
After completing his PhD from the University of Cambridge in 1949, Porter began his research career, focusing on the study of free radicals produced by photochemical means. He served in the Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve during the Second World War, and later worked at the University of Cambridge under the supervision of Ronald George Wreyford Norrish, where he developed the technique of flash photolysis.
This innovative technique enabled Porter to obtain information on short-lived molecular species, providing the first evidence of free radicals. His subsequent research utilized flash photolysis to study the detailed aspects of the light-dependent reactions of photosynthesis, with a particular focus on possible applications to a hydrogen economy, which he strongly advocated for.
Porter held various positions throughout his career, including Assistant Director of the British Rayon Research Association from 1953 to 1954, where he studied the phototendering of dyed cellulose fabrics in sunlight. He then served as a professor in the Chemistry department at the University of Sheffield from 1954 to 1965, where he continued his work on flash photolysis.
During this tenure, he also participated in a television program describing his work, which was part of the "Eye on Research" series. Later, he became the Fullerian Professor of Chemistry and Director of the Royal Institution, a position he held until his death in 2002.
Porter's contributions to the field of chemistry were recognized with numerous awards and honors, including the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1967, which he shared with Ronald George Wreyford Norrish and Manfred Eigen. He was also awarded the Rumford Medal in 1966 and the Copley Medal in 1970, both by the Royal Society.
George Porter's work has had a profound impact on our understanding of chemical reactions and their applications. His pioneering research in flash photolysis has opened up new avenues for the study of chemical kinetics and photochemistry. His advocacy for a hydrogen economy has inspired generations of scientists to pursue sustainable energy solutions.
Through his work, Porter has left an indelible mark on the field of chemistry, inspiring future generations of scientists to continue his legacy of innovation and discovery. As we continue to grapple with the challenges of climate change and sustainable energy, Porter's contributions serve as a beacon of hope, illuminating the path towards a brighter, more sustainable future.
Born in 1897
A British chemist who pioneered the study of chemical reactions, particularly in gases, and was awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1956 for his work on the kinetics of chemical reactions.
93 Years Old
Developed new understanding of chemical reactions and molecular structures, earning a Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1986 for his work on the dynamics of chemical elementary processes.
89 Years Old
A Nobel Prize-winning chemist who pioneered the use of molecular beams to study chemical reactions, making groundbreaking discoveries in the field of chemistry.
Born in 1893
A pioneering scientist who discovered deuterium, a heavy isotope of hydrogen, and later contributed to the discovery of many other elements, revolutionizing our understanding of the universe.
Born in 1901
Pioneering chemist and peace activist who won two unshared Nobel Prizes, one for chemistry and one for peace, for his groundbreaking work on the nature of the chemical bond and his tireless efforts to promote nuclear disarmament.
Born in 1896
Developed the molecular orbital method, a fundamental concept in chemistry that explains the structure and behavior of molecules. He was awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1966 for his work.
