energy

Nature of Electricity

Jan 1, 1752

Ben Franklin tied a key onto a kite during a storm and proved that static electricity and lightning were the same. His correct understanding of the nature of electricity paved the way for the future.

Electric Motor

Jan 1, 1837

Thomas Davenport invented the electric motor, an invention that is used in most electrical appliances today

Electric Telegraph

Jan 1, 1844

Samuel Morse invented the electric telegraph, a machine that could send messages long distances across wire.

Lightbulb

Jan 1, 1879

After many experiments, Thomas Edison invented an incandescent light bulb that could be used for about 40 hours without burning out. By 1880 his bulbs could be used for 1200 hours

Solar Power

Jan 1, 1890

French scientist Henry Becquerel observes the production of electricity directly from the sun while experimenting with an electrolytic cell made up of two metal electrodes placed in an electricity-conducting solution.