Norman Allinger facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Norman L. Allinger
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| Born | April 6, 1928 Alameda, California, U.S.
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| Died | July 8, 2020 (aged 92) Athens, Georgia, U.S.
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| Education | University of California (BS) University of California, Los Angeles (PhD) |
| Known for | MM2, MM3 and MM4 |
| Awards | Sloan Research Fellowship (1957) Arthur C. Cope Scholar (1989) Benjamin Franklin Medal (2002) |
| Scientific career | |
| Fields | Computational chemistry Molecular mechanics |
| Institutions | University of Georgia |
| Thesis | The paracyclophanes. (1954) |
| Doctoral advisor | Donald J. Cram |
Norman "Lou" Allinger (born April 6, 1928, died July 8, 2020) was an American scientist. He was an expert in two types of chemistry: organic chemistry and computational chemistry. He was also a respected professor at the University of Georgia (UGA) in Athens.
Lou Allinger went to college at the University of California, Berkeley. He earned his first degree there in 1951. Later, he got his advanced degree (a Ph.D.) from the University of California, Los Angeles in 1954. He taught at Wayne State University before joining the University of Georgia in 1969. He was known for being a pioneer in using computers to solve chemistry problems. This field is called computational chemistry. He created important computer programs like MM2, MM3, and MM4. These programs help scientists understand how molecules behave.
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About Norman Allinger
Norman Allinger was born in Alameda, California. He served in the United States Army. He passed away on July 8, 2020, at the age of 92.
What is Computational Chemistry?
Computational chemistry uses computers to understand and predict how molecules work. It's like using a super-smart calculator to figure out chemical reactions. Lou Allinger was especially good at something called molecular mechanics. This method treats atoms like tiny balls connected by springs. It helps scientists predict the shapes and energies of molecules. This is very useful for designing new medicines or materials.
Allinger's Computer Programs
Lou Allinger developed a series of computer programs. These are known as MM2, MM3, and MM4. These programs are used by chemists around the world. They help scientists model molecules and understand their structures. This work was very important for the field of chemistry.
Awards and Recognition
Norman Allinger received many important awards for his work. These awards showed how much his contributions helped science.
- 1989: He received the Arthur C. Cope Award.
- 1991: He was elected to the National Academy of Sciences. This is a very high honor for scientists in the United States.
- 1994: He earned the Chemical Pioneer Award. This award is from the American Institute of Chemists.
- 1996: He was given the Schrödinger Medal.
- 2002: He received the Benjamin Franklin Medal in Chemistry. This is a very prestigious award.
