Willard Frank Libby was born on December 17, 1908 in Colorado. He showed an early aptitude for science and went on to earn his doctorate from the University of California, Berkeley at the young age of 25.
After obtaining his doctorate, Libby began his career as a lecturer at the University of California, Berkeley, eventually working his way up to the position of assistant professor. It was during this time that he made his groundbreaking discovery that would revolutionize the field of archaeology.
Libby's most notable contribution to the scientific community was his development of the carbon dating method for determining the age of archaeological specimens. By measuring the levels of a carbon isotope, he was able to accurately date objects tens of thousands of years old. This method became an invaluable tool for archaeologists around the world, allowing them to more accurately determine the age of ancient artifacts and fossils.
In addition to his work on carbon dating, Libby also conducted research on tritium, a radioactive isotope of hydrogen. He found that tritium could be used to date water sources, further expanding the applications of radioactive dating methods.
Libby was married twice, with his second wife Leona Woods Marshall also being involved in the field of science. She played a key role in the testing of the world's first nuclear reactor, showcasing the couple's shared passion for scientific discovery.
Libby's work in the field of physical chemistry earned him the 1960 Nobel Prize in Chemistry, solidifying his place in scientific history. Alongside other notable scientists such as Owen Chamberlain, Libby was a key figure in the development of the atomic bomb during World War II as part of the Manhattan Project.
His contributions to the field of chemistry and archaeology continue to impact research and discovery to this day, proving that the work of one individual can have a lasting influence on the world.