The Chemical Bond and Nobel Prize

History of Chemistry

Part 1: The Nobel Prize in Chemistry - Linus Pauling

Linus Pauling is one of the founding fathers of chemistry, who has also had lasting influence in fields outside chemistry. Born in 1901 in Portland, Oregon, Pauling's career was driven by an insatiable curiosity and an exceptional intellectual capacity that led him to become one of the most influential chemists in history. His contributions culminated in the Nobel Prize in Chemistry, which he received in 1954 (Nobel Prize).

Pauling's Nobel Prize-winning research focused on the nature of chemical bonds and the structure of molecules. His groundbreaking work introduced the concept of orbital hybridization and the principles governing the structure and bonding of molecules. His book, The Nature of the Chemical Bond, is one of the most influential chemistry books ever published, as it changed the way chemists understand the atomic and molecular structure. This work advanced the field of inorganic chemistry and set the stage for numerous advancements in biochemistry and molecular biology (Nobel Prize).

Pauling's impact extended into numerous scientific arenas, including his research on the alpha helix and beta sheet, which are fundamental components of protein structure. His exploration into sickle cell anemia as a molecular disease pioneered the field of molecular genetics and set the stage for modern medical research on genetic disorders. Furthermore, his vocal opposition to nuclear weapons testing helped to galvanize public opinion and scientific discourse on the health risks associated with radioactive fallout, influencing the Partial Test Ban Treaty of 1963 (Nobel Prize).

Pauling's interdisciplinary approach exemplified his belief in the unity of knowledge, where chemistry could provide insights into biological systems and global health issues. His commitment to scientific education was evident in his popular lectures and writings, which made complex subjects accessible and exciting to the public and inspired future generations of scientists. Through these efforts, he not only contributed to the scientific community but also to public understanding and policy changes that have had lasting effects on society.

The Nobel Prize in Chemistry is awarded by the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences, based in Stockholm, Sweden. The selection process is rigorous, and involves a committee of experts who review nominations from prominent members of the scientific community, including previous laureates. Nominations are scrutinized for their impact on the advancement of chemistry, and the selection is based on the originality and significance of the research contributions. This process is so that the award recognizes individuals who have profoundly influenced the field of chemistry.

I selected Linus Pauling for his unique dual contribution to science and peace, making him the only person to have been awarded two unshared Nobel Prizes—his second being the Nobel Peace Prize in 1962. His relentless pursuit of knowledge and dedication to humanitarian causes, alongside his monumental scientific contributions, provides a profound narrative on the impact one individual can have on the world, both within and beyond their field of expertise.

Works Cited

"Linus Pauling - Biographical." NobelPrize.org. Nobel Media AB 2021. Web.

Pauling, L. (1960). The Nature of the Chemical Bond. Cornell University Press.

Part 2: Reflective Feedback

Learning the history of Linus Pauling deepened my appreciation for the field of chemistry, as it showed me that this science was not handed to anyone on a silver platter and we should not take it for granted. Pauling actually put in the work to be able to explain chemical bonding. Without his work, we would not know a lot that we know now. So, this exercise gave me a better sense of this appreciation.