Physicist and Nobel laureate Donald A. Glaser is shown in this black-and-white portrait, wearing glasses, a suit, and a tie, with a confident expression. Renowned for inventing the bubble chamber, Glaser's work greatly advanced experimental particle physics by enabling the visualization of subatomic particles.
Physicist and Nobel laureate Donald A. Glaser is shown in this black-and-white portrait, wearing glasses, a suit, and a tie, with a confident expression. Renowned for inventing the bubble chamber, Glaser's work greatly advanced experimental particle physics by enabling the visualization of subatomic particles.

Robert Burns Woodward

Historical

Historical

Apr 10, 1917

-

Jul 8, 1979

Physicist and Nobel laureate Donald A. Glaser is shown in this black-and-white portrait, wearing glasses, a suit, and a tie, with a confident expression. Renowned for inventing the bubble chamber, Glaser's work greatly advanced experimental particle physics by enabling the visualization of subatomic particles.

Robert Burns Woodward

Historical

Historical

Apr 10, 1917

-

Jul 8, 1979

Biography

FAQ

Quotes

Biography

Organic chemist Robert Burns Woodward revolutionized organic synthesis in the United States. From Boston, Massachusetts, Woodward developed an early fascination with chemistry, experimenting with chemical reactions at home while still in high school. His early interest in the subject brought him to the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), where he quickly earned his Bachelor of Science and PhD. The synthesis of estrone, as a focus of Woodward's doctoral thesis in 1937, established the basis for his forthcoming contributions to organic chemistry.

During his career, Woodward made significant progress in synthesizing complex natural products. In the 1940s, he managed to synthesize quinine, an alkaloid that treats malaria, which stands as one of the first cases of rational synthesis in organic chemistry. Following this accomplishment, he synthesized other complex molecules, including cholesterol, cortisone, and reserpine, to show that the laboratory could construct highly complex natural products. His 1965 Nobel Prize in Chemistry acknowledged his skill in this field. Woodward's synthetic contributions were accompanied by his work in theoretical organic chemistry, in collaboration with Roald Hoffmann, which resulted in the Woodward-Hoffmann rules that describe the stereochemistry of chemical reactions.

Woodward's heritage includes more than just his scientific accomplishments. As a Harvard University professor, he educated hundreds of PhD students and postdoctoral researchers, many of whom had illustrious careers in chemistry. His presentations were renowned, regularly lasting for hours, packed with thorough examination and understanding of the complicated mechanisms of organic reactions. Woodward's research has progressed the discipline of chemistry and also changed the methodology of organic synthesis, merging theory with practice in a way that still affects modern chemists. Although he passed away in 1979, his work in science is still fundamental to organic chemistry.

Quotes

"Organic synthesis is the art of building complex structures from simple materials."

"The beauty of organic chemistry lies in its complexity and its subtlety."

"The key to successful synthesis is planning and understanding the reactivity of molecules."

"No problem in organic chemistry is too difficult if approached with intelligence and care."

"The true test of a chemist's skill is in the synthesis of complex natural products."

"To understand chemical reactions, one must understand the behavior of electrons."

"The Woodward-Hoffmann rules are the synthesis of theory and experiment."

"Great advances in chemistry come from pushing the boundaries of what is possible in the lab."

"Organic synthesis is not only a science but also an art."

"Chemistry is the key to unlocking the mysteries of life at the molecular level."

"Each molecule has its own personality, and the challenge is to discover it."

"The future of chemistry lies in the synthesis of new molecules with unprecedented properties."

"In every complex molecule lies a story of its creation."

"Chemists are the architects of the molecular world."

"The precision of organic synthesis mirrors the precision required in life itself."

FAQ

What is Robert Burns Woodward most famous for?

He is most famous for his research in organic synthesis, especially for his total synthesis of complicated molecules that include quinine, cortisone, and vitamin B12.

What defines the Woodward-Hoffmann rule?

The Woodward-Hoffmann rules define the stereochemistry of chemical reactions, revealing how molecular orbitals govern the results of those reactions.

What was the basis for Robert Woodward's Nobel Prize?

He received the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1965 for his remarkable achievements in synthesizing complex organic compounds.

In what way did Woodward affect organic chemistry?

Woodward demonstrated that the rational approach to organic synthesis is possible, using theoretical principles to lead the creation of complex natural products.

What does Woodward bring to the table regarding penicillin?

Although he did not synthesize penicillin, he contributed to its structural elucidation during World War II.

What is the value of Woodward's synthesis of quinine?

His legacy consists of his foundational work in synthetic organic chemistry, his theoretical contributions, and his role as a mentor and educator to many generations of chemists.

What is Woodward's lasting contribution to the field of chemistry?

His legacy consists of his foundational work in synthetic organic chemistry, his theoretical contributions, and his role as a mentor and educator to many generations of chemists.

What was the result of the Woodward-Hoffmann rules?

The rules deeply affect organic chemistry, delivering a theoretical model for anticipating the results of chemical reactions according to molecular orbital symmetry.

In what way did Woodward's synthesis methodology vary from that of others?

Woodward undertook synthesis with great care and a solid grasp of chemical reactivity, applying theoretical knowledge to formulate complex synthetic pathways.

What honors did Robert Burns Woodward earn?

Woodward received various honors from distinguished universities, including the Nobel Prize, the National Medal of Science, the Copley Medal, and honorary degrees.

Biography

FAQ

Quotes

Biography

Organic chemist Robert Burns Woodward revolutionized organic synthesis in the United States. From Boston, Massachusetts, Woodward developed an early fascination with chemistry, experimenting with chemical reactions at home while still in high school. His early interest in the subject brought him to the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), where he quickly earned his Bachelor of Science and PhD. The synthesis of estrone, as a focus of Woodward's doctoral thesis in 1937, established the basis for his forthcoming contributions to organic chemistry.

During his career, Woodward made significant progress in synthesizing complex natural products. In the 1940s, he managed to synthesize quinine, an alkaloid that treats malaria, which stands as one of the first cases of rational synthesis in organic chemistry. Following this accomplishment, he synthesized other complex molecules, including cholesterol, cortisone, and reserpine, to show that the laboratory could construct highly complex natural products. His 1965 Nobel Prize in Chemistry acknowledged his skill in this field. Woodward's synthetic contributions were accompanied by his work in theoretical organic chemistry, in collaboration with Roald Hoffmann, which resulted in the Woodward-Hoffmann rules that describe the stereochemistry of chemical reactions.

Woodward's heritage includes more than just his scientific accomplishments. As a Harvard University professor, he educated hundreds of PhD students and postdoctoral researchers, many of whom had illustrious careers in chemistry. His presentations were renowned, regularly lasting for hours, packed with thorough examination and understanding of the complicated mechanisms of organic reactions. Woodward's research has progressed the discipline of chemistry and also changed the methodology of organic synthesis, merging theory with practice in a way that still affects modern chemists. Although he passed away in 1979, his work in science is still fundamental to organic chemistry.

Quotes

"Organic synthesis is the art of building complex structures from simple materials."

"The beauty of organic chemistry lies in its complexity and its subtlety."

"The key to successful synthesis is planning and understanding the reactivity of molecules."

"No problem in organic chemistry is too difficult if approached with intelligence and care."

"The true test of a chemist's skill is in the synthesis of complex natural products."

"To understand chemical reactions, one must understand the behavior of electrons."

"The Woodward-Hoffmann rules are the synthesis of theory and experiment."

"Great advances in chemistry come from pushing the boundaries of what is possible in the lab."

"Organic synthesis is not only a science but also an art."

"Chemistry is the key to unlocking the mysteries of life at the molecular level."

"Each molecule has its own personality, and the challenge is to discover it."

"The future of chemistry lies in the synthesis of new molecules with unprecedented properties."

"In every complex molecule lies a story of its creation."

"Chemists are the architects of the molecular world."

"The precision of organic synthesis mirrors the precision required in life itself."

FAQ

What is Robert Burns Woodward most famous for?

He is most famous for his research in organic synthesis, especially for his total synthesis of complicated molecules that include quinine, cortisone, and vitamin B12.

What defines the Woodward-Hoffmann rule?

The Woodward-Hoffmann rules define the stereochemistry of chemical reactions, revealing how molecular orbitals govern the results of those reactions.

What was the basis for Robert Woodward's Nobel Prize?

He received the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1965 for his remarkable achievements in synthesizing complex organic compounds.

In what way did Woodward affect organic chemistry?

Woodward demonstrated that the rational approach to organic synthesis is possible, using theoretical principles to lead the creation of complex natural products.

What does Woodward bring to the table regarding penicillin?

Although he did not synthesize penicillin, he contributed to its structural elucidation during World War II.

What is the value of Woodward's synthesis of quinine?

His legacy consists of his foundational work in synthetic organic chemistry, his theoretical contributions, and his role as a mentor and educator to many generations of chemists.

What is Woodward's lasting contribution to the field of chemistry?

His legacy consists of his foundational work in synthetic organic chemistry, his theoretical contributions, and his role as a mentor and educator to many generations of chemists.

What was the result of the Woodward-Hoffmann rules?

The rules deeply affect organic chemistry, delivering a theoretical model for anticipating the results of chemical reactions according to molecular orbital symmetry.

In what way did Woodward's synthesis methodology vary from that of others?

Woodward undertook synthesis with great care and a solid grasp of chemical reactivity, applying theoretical knowledge to formulate complex synthetic pathways.

What honors did Robert Burns Woodward earn?

Woodward received various honors from distinguished universities, including the Nobel Prize, the National Medal of Science, the Copley Medal, and honorary degrees.

Biography

FAQ

Quotes

Biography

Organic chemist Robert Burns Woodward revolutionized organic synthesis in the United States. From Boston, Massachusetts, Woodward developed an early fascination with chemistry, experimenting with chemical reactions at home while still in high school. His early interest in the subject brought him to the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), where he quickly earned his Bachelor of Science and PhD. The synthesis of estrone, as a focus of Woodward's doctoral thesis in 1937, established the basis for his forthcoming contributions to organic chemistry.

During his career, Woodward made significant progress in synthesizing complex natural products. In the 1940s, he managed to synthesize quinine, an alkaloid that treats malaria, which stands as one of the first cases of rational synthesis in organic chemistry. Following this accomplishment, he synthesized other complex molecules, including cholesterol, cortisone, and reserpine, to show that the laboratory could construct highly complex natural products. His 1965 Nobel Prize in Chemistry acknowledged his skill in this field. Woodward's synthetic contributions were accompanied by his work in theoretical organic chemistry, in collaboration with Roald Hoffmann, which resulted in the Woodward-Hoffmann rules that describe the stereochemistry of chemical reactions.

Woodward's heritage includes more than just his scientific accomplishments. As a Harvard University professor, he educated hundreds of PhD students and postdoctoral researchers, many of whom had illustrious careers in chemistry. His presentations were renowned, regularly lasting for hours, packed with thorough examination and understanding of the complicated mechanisms of organic reactions. Woodward's research has progressed the discipline of chemistry and also changed the methodology of organic synthesis, merging theory with practice in a way that still affects modern chemists. Although he passed away in 1979, his work in science is still fundamental to organic chemistry.

Quotes

"Organic synthesis is the art of building complex structures from simple materials."

"The beauty of organic chemistry lies in its complexity and its subtlety."

"The key to successful synthesis is planning and understanding the reactivity of molecules."

"No problem in organic chemistry is too difficult if approached with intelligence and care."

"The true test of a chemist's skill is in the synthesis of complex natural products."

"To understand chemical reactions, one must understand the behavior of electrons."

"The Woodward-Hoffmann rules are the synthesis of theory and experiment."

"Great advances in chemistry come from pushing the boundaries of what is possible in the lab."

"Organic synthesis is not only a science but also an art."

"Chemistry is the key to unlocking the mysteries of life at the molecular level."

"Each molecule has its own personality, and the challenge is to discover it."

"The future of chemistry lies in the synthesis of new molecules with unprecedented properties."

"In every complex molecule lies a story of its creation."

"Chemists are the architects of the molecular world."

"The precision of organic synthesis mirrors the precision required in life itself."

FAQ

What is Robert Burns Woodward most famous for?

He is most famous for his research in organic synthesis, especially for his total synthesis of complicated molecules that include quinine, cortisone, and vitamin B12.

What defines the Woodward-Hoffmann rule?

The Woodward-Hoffmann rules define the stereochemistry of chemical reactions, revealing how molecular orbitals govern the results of those reactions.

What was the basis for Robert Woodward's Nobel Prize?

He received the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1965 for his remarkable achievements in synthesizing complex organic compounds.

In what way did Woodward affect organic chemistry?

Woodward demonstrated that the rational approach to organic synthesis is possible, using theoretical principles to lead the creation of complex natural products.

What does Woodward bring to the table regarding penicillin?

Although he did not synthesize penicillin, he contributed to its structural elucidation during World War II.

What is the value of Woodward's synthesis of quinine?

His legacy consists of his foundational work in synthetic organic chemistry, his theoretical contributions, and his role as a mentor and educator to many generations of chemists.

What is Woodward's lasting contribution to the field of chemistry?

His legacy consists of his foundational work in synthetic organic chemistry, his theoretical contributions, and his role as a mentor and educator to many generations of chemists.

What was the result of the Woodward-Hoffmann rules?

The rules deeply affect organic chemistry, delivering a theoretical model for anticipating the results of chemical reactions according to molecular orbital symmetry.

In what way did Woodward's synthesis methodology vary from that of others?

Woodward undertook synthesis with great care and a solid grasp of chemical reactivity, applying theoretical knowledge to formulate complex synthetic pathways.

What honors did Robert Burns Woodward earn?

Woodward received various honors from distinguished universities, including the Nobel Prize, the National Medal of Science, the Copley Medal, and honorary degrees.

Life and achievements

Early life

Robert Burns Woodward entered the world in Boston, Massachusetts, on April 10, 1917. Arthur Chester Woodward, his father, died during the 1918 influenza pandemic, which left Margaret Burns Woodward to raise him. Woodward has shown a remarkable talent for chemistry since childhood. While he was a teenager, he plunged into chemical textbooks and performed experiments at home, even reaching out to foreign embassies for scientific journals. His voracious curiosity and commitment to personal study created a platform for his future achievements.

At 16 years old, Woodward began his studies at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), where his ability was quickly noticed. Still, his educational path had its difficulties. After failing to attend his coursework, he was briefly removed from MIT but was allowed rapidly back in because of his remarkable potential. At the age of 20 and by 1937, Woodward had earned his PhD in chemistry, finishing his thesis on the synthesis of estrone, a female sex hormone. This first success initiated a career that would innovate the field of organic chemistry.

After finishing his doctoral studies, Woodward joined Harvard University as a Junior Fellow, where he carried on his research and started to build a name for himself in organic synthesis. His first years at Harvard were characterized by his strengthening interest in the architecture and synthesis of natural products, which would be the emphasis of his career. Through his original use of new analytical methods, such as ultraviolet spectroscopy, Woodward could handle intricate chemical problems that had proved to be intractable. In the 1940s, he made significant contributions to his field, including the first total synthesis of quinine, a considerable accomplishment in organic chemistry.

Legacy

In organic chemistry, Robert Burns Woodward stands alone as one of the most important figures of the 20th century. His contributions to the total synthesis of complex natural products have shown the strength of synthetic organic chemistry and established a framework for chemists to come. Woodward's synthesis of molecules, including quinine, cortisone, reserpine, and vitamin B12, were important achievements in the field, illustrating his skill in designing and carrying out elaborate synthetic pathways with both precision and originality.

One of Woodward's lasting contributions to science was his partnership with Roald Hoffmann on the Woodward-Hoffmann rules, which supplied a theoretical basis for predicting the stereochemistry associated with chemical reactions. The rules, founded on the symmetry properties of molecular orbitals, have transformed chemists' understanding of chemical reactivity and have helped link theory with practice in organic synthesis. The importance of this work became apparent when Hoffmann won the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1981, an award that Woodward would have shared if he hadn't passed away two years earlier.

Woodward's reach went well past just his research. As a Harvard University professor, he guided hundreds of students and postdoctoral researchers, many of whom have since risen to become leaders in chemistry. His lectures were renowned for their richness, transparency, and careful examination of detail, often running for hours as he investigated the details of chemical reactions. The capacity of Woodward to inspire and challenge his students contributed to the creation of a new generation of chemists, several of whom went on to develop his work further.

In addition to his scholarly accomplishments, Woodward maintained strong relationships with industry, functioning as a consultant for leading pharmaceutical firms like Pfizer and Merck. His work had valuable applications in new drug and therapy development, notably in synthesizing antibiotics and other medically essential substances. With Albert Eschenmoser, he accomplished one of the most complex and celebrated feats in organic chemistry, consisting of more than 100 separate steps and years of hard work in synthesizing vitamin B12.

Woodward's death in 1979 signaled the close of a period in organic chemistry, yet his enduring legacy affects the field even today. His thorough synthesis method, inventive application of theoretical ideas, and commitment to solving complicated problems have made a lasting impression on chemistry. Woodward is recognized for his pioneering scientific contributions and his function as a mentor, instructor, and visionary in organic synthesis.

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Your donation today shapes the future of how families and friends connect.
You will become a featured Ambassador.
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Your donation today shapes the future of how families and friends connect.
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Milestone moments

Apr 10, 1917

Origination of Robert Burns Woodward
Robert Burns Woodward was born on April 10, 1917, in Boston. The influenza pandemic of 1918 took his father's life, causing his mother to raise him alone.
Woodward showed an early enthusiasm for chemistry, experimenting at home and reading chemical journals by himself.
Woodward's early love for chemistry grew through independent study. By the time he got to high school, he had already achieved proficiency in advanced chemical methods.
His firsthand experiences formed the basis for a continuing interest in organic chemistry.
The early introduction to chemistry would turn out to be a pivotal moment in Woodward's life, directing him toward becoming one of the most influential chemists of the 20th century.

Aug 12, 1937

Earns PhD from MIT
At 20 years old, Robert Burns Woodward received his PhD in chemistry from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in 1937.
His thesis for his doctorate centered around the synthesis of estrone, which represented his first steps into the synthesis of complicated organic molecules.
Woodward's doctoral studies laid the groundwork for his future success in organic synthesis.
His skill in designing and performing multi-step syntheses would eventually become a signature of his scientific career.
This landmark signified the outset of Woodward's career as an influential personality in organic chemistry as he continued expanding synthetic chemistry's horizons.

Mar 11, 1944

The first time, quinine was synthesized completely.
In 1944, quinine, an alkaloid that treats malaria, was the subject of one of Woodward's earliest breakthroughs in total synthesis.
This milestone was significant throughout World War II because of the restricted quinine supplies caused by the Japanese occupation of Southeast Asia.
The synthesis of quinine was a significant milestone in organic chemistry, showing that complex natural products can be synthesized in the laboratory.
Woodward's synthesis method was systematic and rational, depending on solid chemical reactivity and structure knowledge.
This landmark strengthened Woodward's standing as an expert in organic synthesis and prepared the way for his subsequent research on more complex molecules.

Aug 13, 1965

Honored with the Nobel Prize in Chemistry
Robert Burns Woodward received the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1965 for his remarkable contributions to the synthesis of complex organic molecules.
His contributions to the total syntheses of cholesterol, cortisone, and vitamin B12 were regarded as pioneering.
The Nobel Prize recognized Woodward's skill in organic synthesis and his adeptness at confronting some of the most challenging issues in chemistry.
His detailed method of designing multi-step synthetic pathways has transformed the sector.
The award confirmed Woodward's position as one of the leading chemists of the 20th century, and his contributions to organic synthesis still affect the field.

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