Maxwell Simpson facts for kids

Maxwell Simpson (born March 15, 1815 – died February 26, 1902) was a very important Irish chemist. A chemist is a scientist who studies what things are made of and how they react with each other. Simpson made many discoveries that helped us understand chemistry better.

Early Life and Education

Maxwell Simpson was born in a place called Beach Hill in County Armagh, Ireland. His father was Thomas Simpson. He went to school at Dr. Henderson's in Newry. In 1832, he started studying at Trinity College, Dublin. He finished his studies there in 1837.

After college, he traveled around Europe. While in Paris, he heard a lecture about chemistry. This lecture made him decide to become a chemist. He then went to University College, London to study chemistry.

A Career in Chemistry

In 1847, Maxwell Simpson became a chemistry teacher. He taught at the Park Street Medical School in Dublin. This school later became the Ledwich School of Medicine. When that school closed, he taught at the Peter St. School of Medicine.

Studying Abroad and Discoveries

Simpson took three years off to study more in Germany. He returned to Dublin in 1854. Then he spent two more years studying in Paris. He came back to Dublin again in 1860.

He built his own chemistry lab in his home in Dublin. He worked there for the next seven years. During this time, he made many important discoveries. These discoveries made him one of the top chemists of his time.

Key Scientific Contributions

Maxwell Simpson found better ways to measure nitrogen in organic compounds. Organic compounds are special chemicals found in living things. He also figured out the structure of certain complex alcohols. He even created new acids from other chemicals. These discoveries were very important for chemistry.

Later Career and Recognition

In June 1862, Maxwell Simpson was chosen as a Fellow of the Royal Society. This is a very high honor for scientists in the United Kingdom. It means he was recognized for his important scientific work.

In 1872, he became a Professor of Chemistry. He taught at Queen's College, Cork. He held this important teaching job until he retired in 1892.

Personal Life and Legacy

Maxwell Simpson married Mary Martin. She was the daughter of Samuel Martin from County Down. He passed away in London in 1902. He was buried at Fulham cemetery. His work helped shape the field of chemistry.