One of the many problems I faced was with interference with the theory of Spontaneous Generation, the belief that living things can create itself from organic and even non-living matter. I looked at this issue with much concern as I have always thought that this theory was completely ridiculous. It was thought to be the Origin of Life until I have disproved it. I researched diligently for answers and came to enhanced the experiment performed by my dear companion, John Needham to show the error in Spontaneous Generation. In my demonstration, I poured meat broth into a long necked flask and heated the glass and bent the beck in a "S" looking flask. This was because I did not want air filled with microorganisms to get inside the broth. Then, I boiled the broth to show that no microorganisms had formed. After, to show that microbes did not give life to itself, I broke off the flask neck and allowed the air to fill the flask. Soon after, the broth turned into a cloud substance. My observations showed that microbes did not "spontaneously" generate itself from the broth, instead the microbes appeared only when they were in contact with the air. By doing so, I was able to prove the Spontaneous Generation wrong and to state that microorganisms gather in the air.
Link to experimental demonstration (step by step)
source: (slide) http://www.pasteurbrewing.com/the-life-and-work-of-louis-pasteur/experiments/louis-pasteurs-experiment-to-refute-spontaneous-generation/204.html
(picture & info) http://www.microbiologytext.com/index.php?module=Book&func=displayarticle&art_id=27
What a notable scientist! Your work in this area has brought to my attention the problems industrialization has brought to my beautiful coutnry. Your theory of bacteria is quite insightful and explains the diseases and dirty atmosphere of Britain. I would like to invite you to attend an exhibition in Britain soon; many other gifted individuals such as yourself will also grace England with their presence. I hope that in the future, we will have further opportunity to cooperate upon matters; I am considering sponsoring your research myself. This may be beneficial to you in your work, and for my country as further advancement in your studies will give us more knowledge in the problem of pollution and ailments that occur commonly in dirty areas. Perhaps we may be able to solve this common yet disturbing problem. I look forward to seeing you at the Great Exhibition and to our common cooperation in the advancement of science.
ReplyDelete-Queen Victoria of the United Kingdom and Empress of India