John A. McClelland facts for kids
John Alexander McClelland (born December 1, 1870 – died April 13, 1920) was an Irish physicist. He was known for his early and important work on how tiny particles called beta rays scatter. He also studied how well gases can carry electricity and how easily charged particles, called ions, move around. He was a Fellow of the Royal Society, which is a very high honor for scientists.
A Look at John McClelland's Life
John Alexander McClelland was born in Coleraine, a town in Ireland. His father was William McClelland. John went to college at Queen's College, Galway.
In 1895, he received a special award called a fellowship from the Royal University of Ireland. This allowed him to do more research. From 1896 to 1900, he worked at the famous Cavendish Laboratory in England. During this time, he also studied for a research degree at Cambridge University.
In 1900, John McClelland became a professor at University College, Dublin. He taught and carried out experiments in physics there. He also held several other important positions. He helped guide national education as a Commissioner of National Education. He was also a member of the Senate for the National University of Ireland, helping to run the university. In 1907, he became the secretary for the Royal Irish Academy, an important group for science and learning.
During World War I, McClelland used his scientific skills to help his country. He was part of the Inventions Committee, which looked at new ideas for inventions. He also served on the Committee for Organisation in Industrial Research, helping to organize scientific research for industries.
His scientific achievements were recognized with great honors. In 1909, he was chosen to be a Fellow of the Royal Society. This is a very prestigious group of leading scientists. In 1917, he received the Boyle medal from the Royal Dublin Society for his excellent work.
In 1901, John McClelland married Ina Esdale. They had five children together.
John A. McClelland passed away on April 13, 1920.
