Nobel Prize in Chemistry
History
The Nobel Prize in Chemistry was established by the will of Alfred Nobel, the inventor of dynamite, who left his entire estate to fund annual prizes in six areas, including chemistry. The first Nobel Prize in Chemistry was awarded in 1901 to Jacobus Henricus van 't Hoff, for his discovery of the laws of chemical dynamics and osmotic pressure in solutions.
Selection Process
The selection process for the Nobel Prize in Chemistry is rigorous and secretive. It begins with the sending of nomination forms to around 3,000 selected individuals, usually in September the year before the prizes are awarded. The Nobel Committee for Chemistry then reviews the nominations and selects the laureates through majority vote. The Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences then formally awards the prize.
Notable Laureates
Many laureates of the Nobel Prize in Chemistry have made significant contributions to their field. For example, Marie Curie was awarded the prize in 1911 for her services to the advancement of chemistry by the discovery of the elements radium and polonium. Linus Pauling is the only person to have been awarded two unshared Nobel Prizes - the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1954 and the Nobel Peace Prize in 1962.
Criticisms and Controversies
The Nobel Prize in Chemistry has been subject to criticisms and controversies. Some critics argue that the prize is often awarded for research that is old by the time it is recognized. There have also been controversies over the exclusion of certain individuals who made significant contributions to the work for which the prize was awarded.
Impact and Influence
The Nobel Prize in Chemistry has had a significant impact on the field of chemistry and beyond. It has brought recognition to the field and has often highlighted the importance of basic research. The prize has also influenced the direction of research and funding in chemistry.