Who is King of Chemistry?
There's no single "king" of chemistry, but the title is often informally given to sulfuric acid (H₂SO₄). It's known as the "king of chemicals" due to its extensive industrial applications and high production volume.
Sulfuric acid is a highly corrosive strong mineral acid. Its importance stems from its use in numerous industrial processes, including:
- Fertilizer production: A crucial component in the manufacture of phosphate fertilizers.
- Petroleum refining: Used in the alkylation process to improve gasoline quality.
- Metal processing: Plays a vital role in various metallurgical operations.
- Chemical synthesis: A key reagent in the production of countless other chemicals.
Many chemists have made significant contributions to the field, but no single individual holds the title of "King of Chemistry." Several individuals named King are associated with chemistry departments at various universities, including:
- Benjamin King: University of Nevada, Reno (https://www.unr.edu/chemistry/people/benjamin-king)
- Michael M. King: George Washington University (https://chemistry.columbian.gwu.edu/michael-king)
- Bretta King: The University of Memphis (https://www.memphis.edu/chem/people/faculty/bretta-king.php)
- Sarah King: University of Chicago (https://chemistry.uchicago.edu/faculty/sarah-king)
- Daniel B. King: Drexel University (https://drexel.edu/coas/faculty-research/faculty-directory/chemistry/king-daniel/)
- Angela G. King: Wake Forest University (https://chemistry.wfu.edu/people/faculty/angela-king/)
These individuals contribute to the advancement of chemistry through their research and teaching but do not hold a singular title of "King of Chemistry." The title is more accurately applied to sulfuric acid itself.
