Walther Nernst Biography

Walther Nernst was a German scientist who won the 1920 Nobel Prize in Chemistry for his contribution to the field of thermochemistry. He initially wanted to become a poet, but later switched to physics. Ultimately, he became one of the founders of modern physical chemistry. While still in his twenties, he established Nernst Equation, which sought to connect thermodynamics with electrochemical solution theory. At the same time, he also wrote a text book on physical chemistry, in which he highlighted the importance of both physics and chemistry in the treatment of chemical processes. He also gave equal importance to Avogadro’s law and thermodynamics. In fact, his work on thermodynamics earned him not only universal acclaim but also the coveted Nobel Prize. At the same time, he also invented a number of objects, which had industrial potential. For example, he spent almost a decade trying to improve incandescent lamps and finally produced Nernst Lamp. Although he was one of the signatory of ‘Manifesto of Ninety-Three’ and contributed to Germany’s war effort during the World War I he was thoroughly against the doctrines of Adolf Hitler and his Nazi Party. Consequently, he became an outcast in the beginning of 1930s and led a quite life after resigning from his post.