Harry Kroto, English chemist and academic, Nobel Prize laureate (b. 1939)

Sir Harold Walter Kroto, widely recognized as Harry Kroto, was an eminent English chemist whose profound contributions left an indelible mark on the scientific landscape. Born Harold Walter Krotoschiner on October 7, 1939, in Wisbech, Cambridgeshire, his life's work culminated in sharing the prestigious 1996 Nobel Prize in Chemistry. He passed away on April 30, 2016, leaving behind a legacy of groundbreaking discovery and passionate advocacy for science.

The Discovery of Fullerenes: A Nobel Achievement

Kroto's most celebrated achievement was his collaborative work with American chemists Robert Curl and Richard Smalley, for which they were jointly awarded the Nobel Prize. Their research led to the discovery of fullerenes, a novel allotrope of carbon. Specifically, in 1985, their team at Rice University (while Kroto was a visiting researcher) serendipitously synthesized and identified C60, a molecule comprising 60 carbon atoms arranged in a spherical, cage-like structure. This distinctive shape, remarkably similar to the geodesic domes designed by architect Buckminster Fuller, inspired its affectionate moniker: "buckminsterfullerene," or more simply, "buckyball."

This discovery revolutionized carbon chemistry, revealing a third major form of pure carbon alongside the long-known graphite and diamond. Fullerenes sparked immense interest in materials science, opening new avenues for research into nanotechnology, with potential applications ranging from medicine to electronics.

A Distinguished Academic and Research Career

Sir Harold Kroto's academic journey was extensive and highly influential. He spent approximately 40 years at the University of Sussex, starting as a lecturer and progressing to a full professorship. It was during his tenure there that much of the foundational work leading to the fullerene discovery took place, characterized by his innovative approach to molecular spectroscopy and his exploration of carbon chains in interstellar space, which provided crucial context for the fullerene project. His dedication to research and teaching at Sussex helped shape generations of chemists.

In 2004, Kroto embarked on a new chapter, moving to Florida State University (FSU) in the United States. There, he held the esteemed position of Francis Eppes Professor of Chemistry, continuing his research and mentorship until his passing. Throughout his career, his exceptional work earned him numerous other honors and awards, including his knighthood in 1996, a testament to his significant impact on British science and beyond.

Championing Science Education and Rational Thought

Beyond his profound scientific discoveries, Harry Kroto was a fervent advocate for science education and a staunch critic of religious faith. He firmly believed in the power of rational inquiry and the importance of making scientific knowledge accessible to the public. To this end, he co-founded the Vega Science Trust in 1994 (later rebranded as the Kroto Research Institute), an educational charity dedicated to producing high-quality science films and programs for television and the internet. His goal was to inspire young people and foster a deeper understanding of scientific principles among general audiences.

His skepticism towards religious belief stemmed from a deep commitment to empirical evidence and logical reasoning. Kroto often articulated his view that science and dogmatic faith were fundamentally incompatible, emphasizing the importance of critical thinking and questioning in all aspects of life. His advocacy extended to promoting a global "open access" initiative for scientific information, ensuring that knowledge could be shared freely and widely.

Legacy and Enduring Impact

Sir Harold Kroto's legacy is multifaceted: a Nobel laureate who uncovered a new form of matter, a dedicated educator who championed science literacy, and a bold intellectual who consistently advocated for reason and critical thinking. His work on fullerenes not only expanded our understanding of carbon but also laid crucial groundwork for the burgeoning field of nanotechnology. His passing marked the end of an era for many, but his scientific contributions and his passionate calls for intellectual curiosity continue to inspire and resonate globally.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Sir Harold Kroto

What was Sir Harold Kroto known for?
Sir Harold Kroto is best known for his co-discovery of fullerenes, particularly the C60 molecule (buckminsterfullerene), for which he shared the 1996 Nobel Prize in Chemistry with Robert Curl and Richard Smalley.
What are fullerenes?
Fullerenes are a unique class of carbon allotropes, meaning they are different structural forms of carbon, distinct from graphite and diamond. They are characterized by their hollow, cage-like structures, with C60 being the most famous example, resembling a soccer ball.
When and where was Harry Kroto born?
Harry Kroto was born on October 7, 1939, in Wisbech, Cambridgeshire, England.
What was his view on science education?
Sir Harold Kroto was a passionate advocate for science education. He believed strongly in making scientific knowledge accessible to everyone and inspiring young people. He even co-founded the Vega Science Trust to create educational science films.
Did he hold any other prominent positions?
Yes, he spent approximately 40 years at the University of Sussex and later became the Francis Eppes Professor of Chemistry at Florida State University, where he continued his research and teaching.
Why was he a critic of religious faith?
Kroto's criticism of religious faith stemmed from his deep commitment to rational thought, empirical evidence, and scientific inquiry. He often argued that scientific understanding and dogmatic faith were fundamentally incompatible, promoting critical thinking over unquestioning belief.