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Alessandro Volta - Italian physicist, chemist, and pioneer of electricity and power (1745-1827)

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Alessandro Volta, an Italian physicist and chemist, stands as a towering figure in the history of electricity. His relentless curiosity and ingenious inventions paved the way for modern electrical science and technology. He is best known for inventing the voltaic pile, the first true electric battery, and for his discovery of methane gas. This timeline outlines key moments in his life and scientific career.
Birth in Como, Italy
February 18, 1745
Alessandro Giuseppe Antonio Anastasio Volta was born in Como, Lombardy (then part of the Duchy of Milan), Italy. Born into a noble family, Volta's early life was marked by a period of delayed speech development. Despite this early challenge, his intellectual capabilities soon became evident, setting the stage for his future contributions to science.
Publication of 'De vi attractiva ignis electrici ac phaenomenis inde pendentibus'
1769
Volta published his first scientific paper, 'De vi attractiva ignis electrici ac phaenomenis inde pendentibus' (On the Attractive Force of Electric Fire, and on Phenomena Depending Therefrom). This work showcased his early interest in and understanding of electrical phenomena, marking the beginning of his serious scientific pursuits.
Invention of the Electrophorus
1775
Volta invented the electrophorus, a device capable of generating static electricity. While not a continuous source of electricity like his later battery, the electrophorus was a significant improvement over existing methods of producing static charge and demonstrated Volta's innovative approach to electrical experimentation.
Discovery of Methane
1776
Volta discovered methane (CH4) after studying 'inflammable air' found in marshes near Lake Maggiore. This discovery expanded the understanding of gases and combustion, contributing to the burgeoning field of chemistry and laying groundwork for future research in the field of organic compounds.
Professor of Physics at the University of Pavia
1779
Volta was appointed professor of physics at the University of Pavia, a prestigious position that provided him with resources and opportunities to further his research. He held this professorship for nearly 40 years, during which he conducted groundbreaking experiments and mentored numerous students.
Invention of the Voltaic Pile
1800
Volta invented the voltaic pile, the first true electric battery. This device, consisting of alternating discs of zinc and copper separated by brine-soaked cardboard, produced a continuous electric current, revolutionizing the study and application of electricity. This invention marked a paradigm shift and became the foundation for future electrical technologies.
Demonstration to Napoleon Bonaparte
1801
Volta demonstrated his voltaic pile to Napoleon Bonaparte in Paris. Napoleon was deeply impressed and recognized the significance of Volta's invention, awarding him numerous honors and titles, including Count of the Kingdom of Italy and Senator. Napoleon also provided him with considerable funding to continue his research.
Count of the Kingdom of Italy
1810
Napoleon Bonaparte bestowed the title of Count upon Volta as recognition for his scientific achievements and the implications of his discoveries for the advancement of knowledge and society as a whole. This elevated Volta's social standing and further cemented his legacy.
Death in Como, Italy
March 5, 1827
Alessandro Volta died in his hometown of Como, Italy, at the age of 82. He left behind a profound legacy in the field of electricity, his invention of the voltaic pile having fundamentally changed the course of scientific and technological development. His name is immortalized in the unit of electrical potential, the volt.

Other Themed Timelines

Early Life and Education (1745-1769)Early Life and Education (1745-1769)Early Scientific Investigations and Recognition (1769-1780)Early Scientific Investigations and Recognition (1769-1780)Impact on Science and Technology (1800 Onward)Impact on Science and Technology (1800 Onward)Later Years and Death (1819-1827)Later Years and Death (1819-1827)Personal Life and Family (1745-1827)Personal Life and Family (1745-1827)Recognition and Honours (1800-1819)Recognition and Honours (1800-1819)Scientific Instruments and Innovations (1770-1800)Scientific Instruments and Innovations (1770-1800)The Galvanic Controversy (1790-1800)The Galvanic Controversy (1790-1800)The Voltaic Pile and the Birth of the Battery (1780-1800)The Voltaic Pile and the Birth of the Battery (1780-1800)Volta's Writing and CorrespondenceVolta's Writing and Correspondence