Who invented electricity?
The invention of electricity is not the achievement of a single person, but is the result of the work of many researchers and inventors over the centuries. The understanding and utilization of electricity has developed gradually, and many notable people have influenced its development. In this article, we look at some key people and their contributions to the invention and development of electricity.
Early observations and studies
The first observations about electricity were already made in ancient Greece. The Greek philosopher Thales of Miletus (c. 624–546 BCE) noticed that when amber was rubbed into fur, it attracted small objects such as feathers. This phenomenon is now known as static electricity.
17th and 18th centuries: The beginning of electricity research
In the 17th century, the English physician and naturalist William Gilbert (1544–1603) studied electrical and magnetic phenomena and published the work “De Magnete”. Gilbert’s work laid the foundation for the development of electrical engineering.
In the 18th century, Benjamin Franklin (1706–1790) made significant experiments with electricity. He is especially known for his kite experiment, where he proved that lightning is electricity. Franklin’s work led to the emergence of the concepts of “positive” and “negative” electric charge.
19th century: Practical applications of electricity
In the 19th century, electrical engineering developed rapidly. Italian physicist Alessandro Volta (1745–1827) invented the first electric battery, the Volta battery, in 1800. This made it possible to produce a continuous electric current and was a significant step towards the practical applications of electricity.
The English scientist Michael Faraday (1791–1867) made significant discoveries in the field of electromagnetism. He invented the principle of electromagnetic induction, which is the basis of the operation of electric motors and generators. Faraday’s work is often considered the unification of electricity and magnetism into one scientific theory.
Modern electrical technology
At the end of the 19th century and the beginning of the 20th century, several inventors and scientists further developed the use of electricity. Thomas Edison (1847–1931) and Nikola Tesla (1856–1943) are well-known pioneers of electrical technology. Edison developed the light bulb and established the first commercial electricity generating plant. Tesla, on the other hand, developed the alternating current (AC) system, which is the most widely used power transmission system today.
Summary
The invention and development of electricity is the result of the work of many researchers and inventors. Early observations such as Thales of Miletus and William Gilbert laid the foundation for later research. In the 18th and 19th centuries, Benjamin Franklin, Alessandro Volta, and Michael Faraday made significant discoveries that enabled practical applications of electricity. Finally, Thomas Edison and Nikola Tesla further developed electrical technology, leading to the birth of the modern electrical system.
You can read more information from the following sources:
