The fourth state of matter, thallium, and the power of the mind - the role of Sir William Crooks in Victorian science, and the reception of his work in Bohemia
2016
Abstract
Sir William Crookes (1832-1919) was one of the most notable British physicists and chemists active in the second half of the 19th century. The subject of this article is his life and scientific legacy, e. g. the discovery of thallium, exploration of fourth state of matter, participation in discovering certain rare gases, or invention of the first radiometer and spinthariscope.
Some of his ideas were presented to Czech audience already during the course of his life. It's these texts especially that are the golden threat of our article.