André-Marie Ampère explained to kids
André-Marie Ampère was a French physicist and mathematician who was one of the founders of the science of electricity. He is best known for his work on the relationship between electricity and magnetism, which is now known as electromagnetism.
Ampère was born in Lyon, France, on January 20, 1775. His father was a prosperous merchant, and Ampère was expected to follow in his father's footsteps. However, Ampère showed an early interest in science, and he was soon enrolled in the Collège Mazarin, a prestigious school in Paris.
Ampère's scientific career began in earnest when he was appointed to a position in the French Academy of Sciences in 1795. He quickly made a name for himself with his work on electricity and magnetism. In 1820, he published a treatise on the subject that established him as one of the leading authorities on the subject.
Ampère's work on electromagnetism led to the development of the electric motor and the telephone. He also did important work in the fields of heat and optics.
Ampère died in Marseille, France, on June 10, 1836.