Archibald Liversidge facts for kids
Archibald Liversidge (born November 17, 1847 – died September 26, 1927) was an important English chemist. He also helped start the Australasian Association for the Advancement of Science. This group helped science grow in Australia and New Zealand. He made a big impact on science education and research in Australia.
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Early Life and Education
Archibald Liversidge was born in Turnham Green, England. He was taught at home by private teachers. In 1866, he started studying at the Royal College of Chemistry. He also attended the Royal School of Mines.
Liversidge was a very bright student. In 1867, he won special awards for his work. These awards were in chemistry, mineralogy (the study of minerals), and metallurgy (the study of metals). By 1870, he earned a scholarship to Christ's College, Cambridge. He also became a chemistry teacher's assistant there.
Career in Australia
In 1872, Liversidge moved to Australia. He became a geology teacher at the University of Sydney. He started his new job in early 1873. By 1874, he was promoted to a professor. He taught geology and mineralogy.
Writing About Minerals
In 1876, Liversidge published a book called The Minerals of New South Wales. This book was based on a paper he wrote earlier. He updated and republished it in 1882 and 1888. This book helped people learn about Australia's natural resources.
Developing Science Education
Liversidge traveled to Europe in 1878. He visited many museums and universities. He learned how other countries taught science. By 1879, he convinced the University of Sydney to create a science department. This was a big step for science education in Australia.
In 1880, he wrote a report about museums. This report helped create the Industrial, Technological and Sanitary Museum. This museum later became part of the Powerhouse Museum in Sydney. His work helped build important science collections.
Changes in His Role
Over time, Liversidge's job title changed. In 1881, he taught chemistry and mineralogy. By 1891, he focused only on chemistry. He was the head of the science department from 1882 to 1904. He also started a mining school at the university in 1892.
Leading Scientific Societies
Liversidge was very active in the Royal Society of New South Wales. He was a secretary for many years. He also served as its president three times. He helped edit the society's scientific journal.
In 1888, he helped create the Australasian Association for the Advancement of Science. He was a key leader of this group for over 20 years. He also served as its president in 1898. This association helped scientists from Australia and New Zealand work together.
Later Life
Liversidge retired from the University of Sydney in 1907. He moved back to England in 1909. He continued to be involved in science groups there. He passed away on September 26, 1927, from a heart attack.
Legacy and Awards
Archibald Liversidge wrote many scientific papers. He published over 100 articles on chemistry and mineralogy. He also wrote a book for students called Tables for Qualitative Chemical Analysis.
He was known for his hard work in promoting science. Joseph Maiden, a historian, said Liversidge "practically re-founded the Society." He made the Royal Society of New South Wales a strong and important group.
Liversidge was recognized for his contributions. He became a member of the Royal Society in London in 1882. He also received an honorary degree from Glasgow University.
After his death, Liversidge left money to the University of Sydney. This money helps fund scholarships and research in chemistry. The Royal Society of Chemistry also has a special award named after him. It is called the Liversidge Award.
A type of heath plant found in eastern Australia is named after him. It is called Leptospermum liversidgei.
