Robert Boyle
By the way… As an alchemist, I was unsuccessful in finding the legendary Philosopher’s Stone, which was said to turn any metal into gold.
The first MODERN CHEMIST This aristocratic author from Ireland advanced modern chemistry with the first law of gases.
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Born in 1627 at Lismore Castle in Ireland, Boyle’s aristocratic family sent him on a TOUR OF EUROPE when he was 12. On his return in 1644, he began writing on a wide range of subjects. Although a religious person, Boyle’s books and essays emphasized scientific and mathematical studies. ce, untries such as Fran Touring European co y was a traditional part Switzerland, and Ital ucation. of a wealthy child’s ed
Productive period In 1649, Boyle started EXPERIMENTING with elements and chemicals. He later moved to Oxford to set up a laboratory. Although he never held any post, Boyle shared ideas and showcased experiments in a group called the Experimental Philosophy Club, alongside important people such as British physician and philosopher John Locke and English architect Christopher Wren.
Who came before… In the 8th century, alchemist Geber was the first to suggest the existence of a Philosopher’s Stone that could create gold from metals. Many medieval scientists spent their lives trying to create one. 52
Swiss alchemist Paracelsus believed the Universe was made up of metals controlled by God. To make medical progress, he suggested doctors should study nature and conduct experiments.
