The power of visualisation is important to the advancement of theoretical physics. For example, it is possible Michael Faraday's discovery of electromagnetic induction occurred due to his inference ...

From the first electrical transformer to the tube that told us why the sky is blue, view the actual objects scientists of the Royal Institution built in some of the world's most famous experiments.

These liquids are some of the first examples of metallic gold colloids, made by Michael Faraday over 150 years ago. These liquids are the first examples of metallic gold colloids. They were made, ...

Prof Danielle George is Associate Dean for Teaching and Learning in the Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences, and a Professor in the Microwave and Communications Systems research group at the ...

Discover how the development of microscopes has shaped our understanding of the senses, as Anwen Bullen explores the working of the ear. The inner ear has long fascinated biologists. It contains our ...

Johan Mentink explores a brand new paradigm in computing, and looks at how it might offer faster solutions that can support scientific breakthroughs. Our brains consume around 20 Watts of power, a ...

Why join the Royal Institution as a member? The Ri is a charity that brings the public and scientists together to share their interest and passion for science. We empower people to explore and get ...

The Royal Institution was founded to 'introduce new technologies and teach science to the general public through lectures and demonstrations'. We've been connecting people to science for over 200 ...

The first ever prototype of Davy’s miner’s safety lamp. Created in 1815, it prevented the methane gas present in the depths of the mines from reacting with the flame and exploding. Following a number ...

Humphry Davy was a chemist and inventor who invented the Davy lamp and a very early form of arc lamp. He was director of the Ri from 1801–1825. Born in Penzance, Sir Humphry Davy attended Truro ...

As a charity, we rely on the kindness and generosity of people like you to fund our vital work. And right now, we need your support more than ever. Ri Membership and Patronage is open to everyone, ...

Asteroids colliding with the planet aren’t just something that the dinosaurs had to deal with. Astronomers think that there are approximately 25,000 “city killer” asteroids in near-Earth orbit – and ...