Robert
Wilhelm Bunsen,
was born on March 31, 1811 in Germany. Bunsen was
educated in Germany. He is known for his work in inorganic chemistry.
In particular, his work emphasized the experimental nature of
chemistry. Bunsen invented or improved on the electrochemical
battery, the spectroscope, the gas burner, and the photometer.
Bunsen was one of the founders of the field of spectroscopy. He demonstrated a procedure for identifying matter based on its spectral characteristics. Using his spectroscope, he discovered the elements cesium and rubidium.
Bunsen died on August 16, 1899.
References
Daintith, J., Mitchell, S., & Tootill, E. (1981). A Biographical Encyclopedia of Scientists. New York: Facts on File.
Howard, A.V. (1951). Chamber's Dictionary of Scientists. London: Chambers.
Ireland, N.O. (1962). Index to Scientists of the World, from Ancient to Modern Times: Biographies and Portraits. Boston, MA: Faxon.
McGraw-Hill (1966). McGraw-Hill Modern Men of Science. New York: McGraw-Hill.