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Air Quote by Christian Friedrich Schonbein

“The phosphorous smell which is developed when electricity (to speak the profane language) is passing from the points of a conductor into air, or when lightning happens to fall upon some terrestrial object, or when water is electrolysed, has been engaging my attention the last couple of years, and…” quote by Christian Friedrich Schonbein
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“The phosphorous smell which is developed when electricity (to speak the profane language) is passing from the points of a conductor into air, or when lightning happens to fall upon some terrestrial object, or when water is electrolysed, has been engaging my attention the last couple of years, and induced me to make many attempts at clearing up that mysterious phenomenon. Though baffled for a long time, at last, I think, I have succeeded so far as to have got the clue which will lead to the discovery of the true cause of the smell in question.”

Christian Friedrich Schonbein

About This Quote

Investigating an odd odor linked to electricity reveals a scientific curiosity that drives systematic experimentation.

In simple terms: Studying the smell from electrical discharge.

Key Takeaway

Pursue curiosity with methodical research.

Themes

Science Curiosity Observation Electrochemistry Discovery

Mood

analytical inquisitive

Type

Air:0 Attention:0 Baffled:0 Causes:0 Clearing:0 Clue:0 Conductor:0 Couple:0 Discovery:0 Electricity:0 Engaging:0 Fall:0 Happens:0 Has beens:0 Language:0 Lasts:0 Lightning:0 Long:0 Long time:0 Mysterious:0 Objects:0 Passing:0 Passings:0 Phenomenon:0 Profane:0 Research:0 Science:0 Smell:0 Speak:0 Success:0 Thinking:0 Water:0 Years:0 Cause Smell:0 Phosphorous Smell:0 Smell Developed:0 Mysterious Phenomenon:0 Smell Question:0

When to use this quote

  • lab research
  • classroom demonstration
  • hobbyist exploration

Key Concepts

Scientific method Phenomenology Experimental design

Questions to Reflect On

  • What mechanisms produce the smell?
  • How can this knowledge be applied?
A Different Perspective

Complex chemistry may be oversimplified.

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