Exploration through experimentation

While waiting for a cure and vaccine for covid-19, it is difficult not to wonder how significant breakthroughs of the past came about. Although we learn about scientists and discoveries in our school curriculum, the one that inspires me most is a British one. I am referring to the inspiring story of Michael Faraday. It represents what was possible in England in those days, and shines as a light that illuminates the ingenuity and spirit of experimentation. His efforts helped humanity to uncover the hidden secrets of the world of electricity. It is unimaginable to picture modern life without electronic products. His life story represents humility, perseverance, religious-scientific harmony, serendipity and exploration through tireless experimentation. The practical legacy of Michael Faraday is not immediately evident physically. Whilst he did not make a machine or gadget, such as a telephone, he impacted our world with his scientific discoveries. Faraday’ s legacy allowed us to help others build the machines we use in our everyday lives. Today, all public supplies of electricity use motors, generators and transformers. The credit of these inventions stems from Faraday’s discovery of Electrical Induction. He discovered this whilst working at the Royal Institution in London.

Faraday’ s work in chemistry, magnetism and electrolysis helped create the modern electrochemical industry. These electrochemical processes used in the manufacture of aluminium and the plating of metals with substances like chrome, tin and silver are dependent on his discovery. He inspired the theory of electromagnetic waves, which led to the possibility of radio transmission.

For all his fame he was unspoilt by success. He worked not for wealth, but the truth. Faraday’ s response to his discoveries was to share it with others. He was famous for teaching through demonstration. His Christmas lectures were very popular in London. These Christmas lectures and regular discourses are ongoing at the Royal Institution. I am confident that with relentless experimentation, fine-tuning and knowledge sharing, we will yield successful results for newer answers to today’ s questions.

By Vidya 9N