William Watson (physicist) facts for kids

William Watson (born August 4, 1868 – died March 3, 1919) was a British physicist and a soldier who served as a Lieutenant-Colonel during World War I. He was known for his scientific work and his bravery during the war.

Early Life and Education

William Watson went to King's College School for his early education. He then studied physics at the Royal College of Science. There, he learned from important scientists like Arthur William Rucker and C. V. Boys. Watson earned his bachelor's degree in 1890.

Becoming a Professor

Watson stayed at the Royal College of Science after graduating. He started as a demonstrator in physics in 1890. This meant he helped students with experiments. Later, he became an assistant professor in 1897. By 1915, he was made a full professor. In 1901, he was chosen to be a Fellow of the Royal Society. This is a special honor for top scientists.

Scientific Discoveries and Work

Watson was involved in many interesting science projects. Early in his career, he helped with a big study of Earth's magnetism across the British Isles. This project lasted from 1890 to 1895.

Working with Other Scientists

Watson worked with C. V. Boys on experiments using a "radio-micrometer." He also helped time how fast electricity discharged from spark generators. A cool part of his work was helping to photograph bullets as they flew! He also studied how light changes when it passes through liquids in a magnetic field.

Designing New Tools

Watson was good at designing new scientific tools. He created special "self-recording magnetographs." These machines could automatically record changes in the Earth's magnetic field. They were used at important places like Kew and Eskdalemuir.

Writing Physics Books

Besides his research, Watson wrote several popular physics textbooks. His books, including Textbook of Physics, Intermediate Physics, and Practical Physics, were used by many students.

Helping with Cars and Vision

Watson was also a member of the Expert and Technical Committee of the Royal Automobile Club. He designed tools to help improve petrol (gasoline) engines for cars. He also worked with W. de W. Abney on experiments about how people see colors.

Service in World War I

When World War I began, a new and terrible weapon appeared: poison gas. In April 1915, poison gas attacks started. William Watson was sent to France to help. His job was to find ways to protect soldiers from these dangerous gases.

Fighting Poison Gas

In May 1915, Watson carried out the first experiments by the Allied forces on a gas cloud in the field. He was trying to understand how the gas moved and how to stop it. In June 1915, the British Army set up the Central Laboratory, and Watson became its director. He personally collected and examined German gas shells and their fuses. This was very dangerous work.

A Heroic Sacrifice

During his investigations in the field, Watson was often exposed to different types of poison gases. He became a victim of the last major gas attack of the war. Sadly, he died in the hospital from the effects of the gas. William Watson is remembered for his bravery and sacrifice. His name is on the war memorial at Golders Green Crematorium.

Other Memberships

Besides his scientific and war work, Watson was also a member of the Savile Club.