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Volta (COUNT ALESSANDRO an Italian)

COUNT ALESSANDRO, an Italian natural philosopher; born in Como, Italy, Feb. 18, 1745. Two treatises, published in 1769 and 1771, in which he gave a description of a new electrical machine, laid the foundation of his fame. He was successively Professor of Physics at the gymnasium in Como and in the University of Pavia. He invented the electrophorus, electroscope, electrical condenser, elec electrical pistol, and the voltaic battery in the form known as "crown of cups." He also devised several other electrical appliances, and in 1800 the voltaic pile. To him is due the theory that electricity is generated by the contact of dissimilar metals, a correction of Galvani's animal electricity theory. In 1782 he made a tour through France, Germany, England, and Holland.

In 1801 Napoleon invited him to France, where a medal was struck in his honor.

In 1810 he was created a senator of Italy, with the title of count; and in VOLTAIC BATTERY 1815 was made director of the philosophical faculty of Padua. Volta's name is COUNT ALESSANDRO VOLTA perpetuated in a large number of electrical terms. He died in Como, March 5, 1827.