Overview
This lecture focuses on Hans Christian Ørsted, the Danish scientist who discovered the connection between electricity and magnetism, exploring his background, influences, and impact on science and society.
Early Life and Education
- H.C. Ørsted studied pharmacy and philosophy with his brother at Elers' Dormitory in Copenhagen.
- Chemistry was not taught at university, so pharmacy was Ørsted's closest option.
- He earned a doctorate in philosophy after graduating as a pharmacist in 1797.
- Influenced by philosopher Immanuel Kant and the idea that natural forces are made of opposing elements.
Philosophical Influences and Dynamic Theory
- Kant inspired Ørsted to seek unity among all scientific theories through fundamental forces.
- Ørsted's "dynamic theory" aimed to explain physics and chemistry by connecting heat, light, electricity, and magnetism.
- His approach combined philosophy, religion, and science, searching for the basic laws governing nature.
Experiments and Scientific Context
- Ørsted built on Alessandro Volta's invention of the voltaic pile (early battery) and contemporary self-experimentation practices.
- He interacted with German scientist Johann Ritter, known for ultraviolet light discovery and romantic scientific outlook.
- Romanticism influenced Ørsted, emphasizing intuition, unity in nature, and the blending of art and science.
Career Challenges and Achievements
- Ørsted’s early attempts to gain international recognition were initially mocked, notably in Paris.
- Appointed professor of physics at the University of Copenhagen in 1806, he promoted public science education.
- Invented over 2000 Danish words and supported cultural and scientific growth in Denmark.
Discovery of Electromagnetism
- In 1820, Ørsted discovered that electric current affects a magnetic needle, proving a link between electricity and magnetism.
- His finding, published and shared across Europe, revolutionized science and led to further discoveries in electromagnetism.
Legacy and Impact
- Ørsted’s discovery is foundational for modern technological society (power plants, electrification).
- Founded the Technical University of Denmark (DTU) and helped establish the Faculty of Science at the University of Copenhagen.
- Recognized internationally, including as a member of the Royal Society.
- Advocated for education, science, and Danish innovation.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Voltaic pile — the first chemical battery producing a steady electric current, invented by Alessandro Volta.
- Electromagnetism — the phenomenon showing interdependence between electricity and magnetism.
- Dynamic theory — Ørsted’s theory unifying natural forces such as heat, light, electricity, and magnetism.
- Romanticism — 19th-century movement emphasizing emotion, unity, and holistic approaches in science and art.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review the principles behind the voltaic pile and electromagnetism.
- Read about Romanticism’s influence on 19th-century science.
- Study Ørsted’s experiments and their impact on modern technology.