Who Invented Nitrous Oxide?

Background: Joseph Priestley's discovery of nitrous oxide (N2O) was recorded in 1772. In the late 1790's, Humphry Davy experimented with the psychotropic properties of N2O, describing his observations in a book, published in 1800. A dentist, Horace Wells

Horace Wells
Early life

His parents were well-educated and affluent land owners, which allowed him to attend private schools in New Hampshire and Amherst, Massachusetts. At the age of 19 in 1834, Wells began studying dentistry under a 2-year apprenticeship in Boston. The first dental school did not open until 1840 in Baltimore.

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discovered anaesthesia with N2O in 1844.

Where was nitrous oxide invented?

In January 1845, Dr. Wells demonstrated his discovery of the effects of nitrous oxide at the Harvard Medical School in Boston.

What is the origin of nitrous oxide?

The origin of nitrous oxide in the atmosphere is due to the reaction between nitrogen molecules and oxygen atoms formed by the photochemical dissociation of ozone in the atmosphere.

James H. Sterling

James H. Sterling

Environmental Science & Climate Journalist

James Sterling reports on renewable energy developments, climate policy, ecological conservation, and green tech innovations around the globe.