1831-1879. Scottish physicist. His major
achievement was in the understanding of
electromagnetic waves: Maxwell's equations
bring together electicity, magnetism, and
light in one set of relations. He contributed
to every branch of physical science - gases,
optics, and colour sensation. His theoretical
work in magnetism prepared the way for
wireless telegraphy and telephony. Born in
Edinburgh, he was professor of natural
philosophy at Aberdeen 1856-60, and then of
physics and astronomy at London. In 1871, he
became professor of experimental physics at
Cambridge. His principal works include
Perception of Colour, Colour Blindness 1860,
Theory of Heat 1871, Electricity and
Magnetism 1873, and Matter and Motion 1876.
His principal works include Perception of
Colour 1860, Theory of Heat 1871, Electricity
and Magnetism 1873, and Matter and Motion
1876.