Jan Baptista van HelmontBorn 12 Jan 1579; died 30 Dec 1644 at age 65. Belgian natural philosopher, chemist, physician and physiologist who coined the word “gas” (via Greek khaos, empty space), of which he foundseveralexamples, most natably carbon dioxide. As a man of his age, he waspart medieval alchemist and part scientist. Helmont was the first to recognize gases distinct from atmospheric air. He determined that the gas given off by burning charcoal is the same as that given off by fermenting grape juice. This he namedspiritus silvestre ("wild spirit"); we call it carbon dioxide. He also identified hydrogen sulphide from humans, and made hydrochloric acis gas. As a physician and physiologist, Helmont was one of the first to apply chemical principles in human health and disease. Some call him the “father of biochemistry.” He was interrogated by the Inquisition, and spent some time under house arrest.«Birth date: DSB gives 12 Jan 1579; EB gives "12 Jan 1580,[1579, Old Style]." |
