James Arthur Pollock facts for kids

James Arthur Pollock, a brilliant scientist, was born in Ireland on November 17, 1865. He became a physicist, which is a scientist who studies how the world works, from tiny particles to huge galaxies. Pollock was also a Fellow of the Royal Society (FRS), a special honor given to top scientists. He spent most of his career in Australia.

Early Life and Moving to Australia

James Arthur Pollock was born in Douglas, a town in County Cork, Ireland. He went to school in England. In 1885, when he was about 20 years old, Pollock moved to Australia. His family soon joined him there.

In 1886, he got his first job in Australia. He worked as an assistant to Henry Chamberlain Russell. Russell was the main government astronomer for New South Wales. An astronomer is a scientist who studies stars, planets, and space.

A Career in Physics

In 1889, James Arthur Pollock became a professor of physics at the University of Sydney. This was a very important job. As a professor, he taught students and did his own research.

He studied many interesting things. One area he explored was atmospheric ions. These are tiny, electrically charged particles found in the air around us. He also worked on vacuum technology. This involves creating spaces with no air or gas inside them. This technology is used in many things, like light bulbs and computer chips.

Heroic Work in World War I

During World War I, James Arthur Pollock wanted to help his country. He joined the Engineering Corps, a special group of soldiers who use science and building skills. He worked alongside another famous person, Edgeworth David.

Pollock used his physics knowledge to design special equipment. This equipment was used for tunnelling. Soldiers would dig tunnels under enemy lines. His designs helped them destroy German strongholds. These were important fortifications on the Messines and Wytschaete ridges in Belgium. His work helped win key battles. By the end of the war, he had earned the rank of major.

Later Life

James Arthur Pollock passed away in Sydney, Australia, on May 24, 1922. He was buried in Waverley Cemetery. He is remembered for his important contributions to physics and his brave service during the war.