Contents
Arthur Compton
Showing that X-rays scatter like particles in the Compton effect, a crucial result in quantum physics.
Compton effect · Cosmic-ray surveys
- Born
- 10 September 1892
- Birthplace
- Wooster, Ohio, United States
- Died
- 15 March 1962
More people
Arthur Compton
Arthur Compton’s experiments revealed that light can transfer energy and momentum like a particle. He later studied cosmic rays, directed nuclear research during the Manhattan Project and led Washington University in St. Louis.
Early life
Academic household
His father taught at the College of Wooster, where Compton completed his undergraduate studies.
Princeton training
Earned a physics doctorate in 1916 before teaching and undertaking industrial research.
Career
- 1916–1920
Early research
Worked at the University of Minnesota and Westinghouse, then studied at Cambridge’s Cavendish Laboratory.
- 1920–1945
X-rays and Chicago
Moved from Washington University to the University of Chicago, pursuing X-ray and cosmic-ray research.
- 1942–1953
Wartime and university leadership
Directed Chicago’s Metallurgical Laboratory and subsequently served as Washington University’s chancellor.
Contributions
Compton effect
Explained changes in scattered X-ray wavelengths through collisions involving photons and electrons.
Cosmic-ray surveys
Measurements at different latitudes supported the conclusion that primary cosmic rays include charged particles.
X-Rays in Theory and Experiment
Co-authored a major reference work with Samuel K. Allison.
Beyond physics
Science and conscience
His later writing discussed the moral responsibilities associated with atomic weapons.
Family collaboration
Married Betty McCloskey in 1916; she accompanied him on research travels.
Sources & photo credit
Life, career and references ↗Institutional biography and research ↗Photo: Unknown (Mondadori Publishers). Public domain · Original image. Cropped and displayed in monochrome.
