Exhibition celebrates centenary of Scottish scientist

Exhibition celebrates centenary of Scottish scientist

A new exhibition celebrating the achievements of a world-leading Scottish scientist has opened at the University of Aberdeen.

William Thomson (1824-1907), otherwise known as Lord Kelvin, made his name as a physicist and engineer with his 'classical' approach to physical science.

He is recognised as making fundamental contributions to thermodynamics, electrical theory and practice, navigation, and the design and manufacture of precision instruments.

His work also made intercontinental telegraphy possible in the 19th century.

The new exhibition in the foyer of the Fraser Noble Building comes 100 years after Kelvin's death.

Equipment on display includes a selection of advanced 19th century pieces made to Kelvin's own design by the Glasgow instrument maker James White, with whom Kelvin collaborated. 

Also in the display is an unusual thermometer measuring in degrees Kelvin, the international standard temperature scale.  

Exhibition Curator John Reid said: "Kelvin advanced fundamental science and practice in a way that we seldom see one person doing these days. His work made intercontinental telegraphy possible in the 19th century and every ship in the world with an effective compass binnacle is putting Kelvin's design into practice."

Centenary of an Iconic Scottish Scientist: Kelvin runs until January 2008 in the Fraser Noble Building foyer. The Fraser Noble Building is located on the Kings College campus, Old Aberdeen. The exhibition is open Monday-Friday 9am-5pm. Entry is free.

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