Charles Tomlinson (scientist) facts for kids

Charles Tomlinson (born in 1808, died in 1897) was a clever scientist who wrote many papers about weather patterns (called meteorology) and how liquids behave. He helped us understand more about the world around us.

Who Was Charles Tomlinson?

Charles Tomlinson started his journey in science by studying with George Birkbeck. George Birkbeck was famous for starting the London Mechanics' Institute, a place where ordinary people could learn about science and useful skills.

For a while, Charles ran a school in Salisbury with his brother, Lewis. He became known for his original ideas and investigations. Because of his talent, he was invited to London. There, he became a lecturer, teaching experimental science at King's College School.

His Scientific Discoveries

During the 1840s and 1850s, Charles Tomlinson wrote several important science books. These books were about weather events and were published for a group called the Society for Promoting Christian Knowledge.

In 1872, he was chosen to be a member of the Royal Society. This is a very old and respected group for top scientists. Two years later, in 1874, he helped start the Physical Society. This society brought together scientists who studied physics.

One of Charles Tomlinson's most important contributions was to our understanding of surface tension. This is the special force that holds the surface of a liquid together, like why a water droplet forms a bead or why some insects can walk on water.

Later Life and Hobbies

In his later years, Charles Tomlinson spent time on literature, which means writing and studying books. He even gave special lectures about the famous poet Dante at University College from 1878 to 1880.

He was also a very keen chess player! He loved the game so much that he wrote a book about it called Amusements in Chess, which came out in 1845.

Charles Tomlinson was married to Sarah Windsor Tomlinson, who was also an author. She passed away in 1872 and was buried in Highgate Cemetery. Charles Tomlinson was later buried in the same spot.