H. W. Harvey facts for kids

Hildebrand Wolfe Harvey was an important English marine biologist. He was born in London on December 31, 1887. He passed away in Plymouth, Devon, on November 26, 1970. Harvey was recognized for his scientific work. He received awards like the CBE and was a Fellow of the Royal Society.

About Hildebrand Harvey

Hildebrand Harvey was a scientist who studied the ocean. He focused on how plants and animals live in the sea. His research helped us understand the ocean's chemistry. He also explored how different things affect marine life.

Early Life and Education

Hildebrand Harvey grew up in England. He attended Gresham's School from 1902 to 1906. After that, he went to Downing College, Cambridge. There, he studied Natural Sciences. This education prepared him for his future in marine biology.

Serving in World War I

During World War I, Harvey joined the Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve. He worked on ships that cleared mines from the sea. He also helped guide patrol vessels. This was an important role during the war.

Career in Marine Biology

In 1921, Harvey started working at the Marine Biological Association of the United Kingdom. This organization is located in Plymouth. He began as a helper for oceanographic studies. His first projects looked at the oceanography of the western English Channel.

Important Discoveries

Harvey made many important contributions to science. In 1928, he wrote a book about the chemistry and physics of seawater. In 1933, he published a famous paper. This paper was about how fast tiny ocean plants called diatoms grow.

He also worked with three other scientists. Together, they wrote a key paper about plankton. Plankton are tiny organisms that float in the ocean. They are a basic food source for many sea creatures. Harvey's work helped explain how plankton populations are controlled.

Harvey's Scientific Records

Today, some of Harvey's original notes are kept safe. The National Marine Biological Library has his scientific notebooks. They also have his data sheets and observations. These records show his detailed work on ocean conditions.

Awards and Honors

Hildebrand Harvey received several important awards. These awards recognized his amazing work in marine biology.

Alexander Agassiz Medal

In 1952, he received the Alexander Agassiz Medal. This medal is given by the United States National Academy of Sciences. The committee that recommended him said:

"H. W. Harvey was a leading student for many years. He studied how chemicals in seawater change. These changes happen because of plants and animals. He also studied how the amount of nutrients affects how much life the sea can support."

This means he helped us understand how the ocean stays healthy and full of life.

Fellow of the Royal Society

In 1942, Harvey was also chosen as a Fellow of the Royal Society. This is a very high honor for scientists in the UK. His nomination said:

"He is known for his successful studies. These studies were about what controls life in the sea. He did a lot of research on nitrates and other natural chemicals in seawater. He studied them in labs and in the ocean. He also created new ways to measure tiny ocean plants. All his work greatly improved our knowledge of how marine life cycles work."

Other Recognitions

• Alexander Agassiz Medal, 1952
• Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE), 1958

Personal Life

Hildebrand Harvey was married twice. In 1923, he married Elsie Marguerite Sanders. Later, he married Marjorie Joan Sarjeant in 1933. They had one son together.