165 years since the birth of physicist Mykola Pylchykov

21 may 2022 year

Science

May 21, 2022 marks the 165th anniversary of the birth of a talented scientist, professor of Kharkiv University Mykola Pylchykov.

Mykola D. Pylchykov is a graduate (1880) of the Faculty of Physics and Mathematics of Kharkiv University, an outstanding world-class scientist, inventor, master lecturer, and active popularizer of science. While working at Kharkiv University at the Department of Physics and Physical Geography in 1884-1894, he held the positions of freelance laboratory assistant, associate professor and extraordinary professor, lectured on meteorology and experimental physics, constantly equipped the physical classroom with devices made in the workshops of famous European firms, founded a magnetic and meteorological department and a meteorological station.

Mykola Pylchykov successfully conducted experimental and theoretical research in various fields of physics, electrochemistry, electrophotography, meteorology, geophysics. He belonged to a cohort of scientists who were the first to study radioactivity, as well as to study X-rays and introduce radiography.

In 1893, the scientist conducted magnetic research in the area of the Kursk magnetic anomaly and discovered several new areas. He designed a number of original physical devices, including a refractometer, a differential hydrometer, a thermostat, an Pylchykov X-ray focus tube, a single-threaded seismograph, and proposed the idea of a high-altitude spacesuit. The scientist was noted for his exceptional ability to work, had high organizational skills and moral principles. He constantly sought to connect theoretical research with practice.

Mykola Pylchykov was elected to various scientific institutions in France, Germany and Austria.

Mykola Pylchykov’s love for Ukraine, its nature and literature was formed from his childhood under the influence of his father and remained with him forever. He was a versatile person: he was fluent in seven languages, translated literary works into Ukrainian, wrote lyric poems, painted professionally and played the violin skillfully.