Boyle and the air-pump
Robert Boyle
Details: Boyle and the air-pump [pdf] / Science programme leaflet [pdf]
Key Stage: AS/A2 Physics
Length: 1-2 hours (adaptable)
Maximum number: See Planning a visit
The fascinating centre piece of this session is the museum’s replica of Robert Boyle’s air-pump which was used to investigate the intriguing properties of air and the vacuum. The air-pump provided the quintessential paradigm for a new programme of experimental science in the seventeenth century, and became very popular for demonstrations in the eighteenth century. It was immortalised in Joseph Wright of Derby’s famous painting of ‘The Philosopher and the Air-pump’.
A hands-on session with the air-pump leads to an exploration of the development of natural philosophy in the seventeenth century including Boyle’s ideas about experimental method and atomism that were part of a movement that laid the foundations of modern science.
Chemistry illustrations
