While Michael Faraday was a brilliant scientist, he wasn't primarily an author in the traditional sense. His true strength lay in experimentation and discovery. Here's a breakdown of his scientific achievements:
Chemistry:
- Discoveries: Benzene, clathrate hydrate of chlorine, early form of the Bunsen burner.
- Invented: System of oxidation numbers.
- Popularized Terminology: Anode, cathode, electrode, and ion.
Electromagnetism and Electrochemistry:
- Discovered: Principles of electromagnetic induction, diamagnetism, and electrolysis (Faraday's Laws).
- Established: The concept of the electromagnetic field.
Additional Points:
- Limited formal education but highly influential.
- Known for clear and simple communication despite limitations in advanced mathematics.
- Held the position of Fullerian Professor of Chemistry at the Royal Institution.