Evangelista Torricelli

Date of Birth: October 15, 1608

Zodiac Sign: Libra

Date of Death: October 25, 1647

Biography

Evangelista Torricelli was an Italian physicist and mathematician, best known for his invention of the barometer. Born in Faenza, Italy, Torricelli was a brilliant student who caught the attention of Galileo Galilei. After the death of his father, he was taken under the care of his uncle, who ensured that he received a proper education. Torricelli studied under the guidance of the Jesuits and later attended the Sapienza University of Rome, where he studied mathematics and physics. His most famous work involved the study of vacuum and atmospheric pressure, leading to the invention of the mercury barometer in 1643. This groundbreaking invention provided a way to measure atmospheric pressure and laid the foundation for modern meteorology. Torricelli also made significant contributions to geometry and the study of fluids. Torricelli spent the later years of his life as a professor of mathematics at the University of Florence, where he continued his research and writing until his death in 1647.

5 Interesting Facts about Evangelista Torricelli

1. Evangelista Torricelli was a student and later a close associate of Galileo Galilei.

2. He is best known for inventing the barometer, a device that measures atmospheric pressure.

3. Torricelli’s work in fluid dynamics and geometry had a lasting impact on the fields of physics and mathematics.

4. The unit of pressure, the torr, is named in his honor.

5. He was appointed as the court mathematician and philosopher to Grand Duke Ferdinando II of Tuscany.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Evangelista Torricelli

1. “We live submerged at the bottom of an ocean of air.”

2. “Nature abhors a vacuum.”

3. “The force of gravity is the same in all bodies.”

4. “The study of natural phenomena is the most noble occupation of man.”

5. “Science is the true guide to knowledge.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

As a scientist in the 17th century, Evangelista Torricelli did not accumulate significant wealth by modern standards. His contributions were more recognized in terms of scientific prestige rather than financial gain.