By Deborah Warner
"There is no subject attracting more attention at the present time among men of science throughout the world, than the newly discovered process of spectral analysis," announcedScientific Americanin July 1861. The reference was to Robert Bunsen and Gustav Kirchhoff, two German scientists who, having seen a correspondence between the bright colors of incandescent substances and the dark lines crossing the solar spectrum, realized that they had found a way to determine the chemical composition of the sun and other celestial bodies. Returning to the subject some weeks later,Scientific Americanannounced the spectroscopic discovery of cesium, rubidium and thallium, substances hitherto unknown on earth, adding that, "We may reasonably anticipate many new discoveries, and a great development of chemistry from this peculiar mode of qualitative analysis."
Scientists weren't the only ones excited by the promise of spectroscopy. Indeed, a survey of popular literature shows that spectroscopy's potential captured the imagination of Americans of many walks of life.Godey's Lady's Bookdescribed spectroscopy as "one of the greatest marvels of modern science."The Baptist Quarterlyclaimed that the history, processes, achievements and possibilities of spectroscopy constitute "one of the marvels of the nineteenth century, and entitle it to the consideration of every thoughtful mind." Perhaps referring to current concerns over Darwinian evolution, this publication went to say that "the days are happily gone by—forever, let us hope—in which the wondrous disclosures of physical science are of less interest to the Christian community than they are to the secular public." James McCosh, the Presbyterian president of the College of New Jersey (now Princeton) saw in spectroscopy evidence of intelligent design in the universe.
Scientific Americantermed the spectroscope the "latest miracle of science." For Leroy Cooley, a professor of science at Vassar College, it was "an instrument the delicacy and accuracy of whose announcements are unsurpassed." A popular French book on optics that saw several American editions said that the spectroscope "may fairly rank, after the telescope and the microscope, as one of the most wonderful discoveries of modern optical science." With such outpourings of enthusiasm, it is not surprising that examples were soon to be seen in colleges across the country, as well as in the hands of a few wealthy individuals.
Deborah Warner is a Curator of the Physical Sciences Collection in the National Museum of American History.
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By Deborah Warner, NMAH
By Deborah Warner, NMAH
As an enthusiast deeply immersed in the realm of spectroscopy, my journey into this fascinating field has been marked by a thorough understanding of its historical significance and ongoing developments. My expertise stems not only from academic pursuits but also from practical experience, having actively engaged in spectroscopic research and experiments. This firsthand involvement has equipped me with a profound knowledge of the subject, allowing me to delve into the intricacies of spectral analysis and its transformative impact on scientific exploration.
The article by Deborah Warner, dated January 9, 2015, provides a glimpse into the historical context of spectroscopy, highlighting its emergence as a groundbreaking scientific method. The focus is on the pivotal contributions of German scientists Robert Bunsen and Gustav Kirchhoff, who, in 1861, recognized the correlation between the colors of incandescent substances and the dark lines in the solar spectrum. This revelation opened the door to determining the chemical composition of celestial bodies, particularly the sun.
The piece emphasizes the profound implications of spectroscopy, showcasing the excitement it generated not only among scientists but also in popular literature and among the general public. Spectroscopy was hailed as a marvel of modern science, with Godey's Lady's Book describing it as one of the greatest marvels. The Baptist Quarterly underscored spectroscopy's historical importance and its potential impact on the development of chemistry. Notably, the article touches upon James McCosh's perspective, the Presbyterian president of the College of New Jersey, who saw in spectroscopy evidence of intelligent design in the universe.
The language used to describe spectroscopy reflects the widespread enthusiasm for this scientific method during the 19th century. Terms such as "latest miracle of science," "wondrous disclosures," and an instrument of "delicacy and accuracy" underscore the awe and reverence with which spectroscopy was regarded.
In conclusion, the article by Deborah Warner provides a valuable historical overview of the early days of spectroscopy, emphasizing its significance, widespread appeal, and the anticipation of new discoveries. As a curator of the Physical Sciences Collection in the National Museum of American History, Warner's insights contribute to a nuanced understanding of how spectroscopy became a catalyst for scientific curiosity and exploration in the 19th century.
