Hans Jacob Mumenthaler

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Hans Jacob Mumenthaler , (born August 31, 1729 in Langenthal ; † March 7, 1813 there ; actually Johann Jacob Mumenthaler ) was a Swiss chemist, mechanic and optician.

biography

The son of Hans Jacob Mumenthaler-Dennler first learned the trade of bookbinder. Then came journeyman years in French and German cities. Then he opened his own shop in Langenthal.

However, due to his interest in mechanics, physics and chemistry , and the scientific knowledge he had acquired abroad, he left bookbinding and devoted himself entirely to his real preference. Mumenthaler developed electrical devices, lamps, paper electrophores and lightning rods , cylinder and cone mirrors. He further developed mirror telescopes , magic lantern , camera obscura and solar microscopes, which even penetrated non-transparent surfaces. As a practical chemist, he produced inks, lacquers, amber and copal varnishes.

In 1773 his instruments were tested and awarded by the Academy of Sciences in Paris. In 1777 the traveling Emperor Joseph II visited him and in 1797 he was one of the founders of the Helvetian Natural Research Society.

literature

personal data
SURNAME Mumenthaler, Hans Jacob
ALTERNATIVE NAMES Mumenthaler, Johann Jacob
BRIEF DESCRIPTION Swiss chemist, mechanic and optician
DATE OF BIRTH August 31, 1729
PLACE OF BIRTH Langenthal
DATE OF DEATH March 7, 1813
Place of death Langenthal