Father of Chemistry Honored at King Salman Science Oasis

Jabir ibn Hayyan conducted experiments and discovered essential chemical compounds that continue to be used today - SPA
Jabir ibn Hayyan conducted experiments and discovered essential chemical compounds that continue to be used today - SPA
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Father of Chemistry Honored at King Salman Science Oasis

Jabir ibn Hayyan conducted experiments and discovered essential chemical compounds that continue to be used today - SPA
Jabir ibn Hayyan conducted experiments and discovered essential chemical compounds that continue to be used today - SPA

Jabir ibn Hayyan, a renowned Muslim scientist, known as the "father of chemistry" for his pioneering contributions to the field is being honored at the STEAM 2024 Science and Technology Festival at the King Salman Science Oasis.
Born in 721AD, he conducted experiments and discovered essential chemical compounds that continue to be used today.
The renowned scholar Ibn Khaldun recognized Ibn Hayyan's immense contributions, referring to him as "the imam of chemistry writers". In fact, chemistry itself was sometimes called "the science of Jabir" in honor of his groundbreaking work, according to SPA.
Ibn Hayyan's innovative work, including the distillation process, significantly impacted the development of chemistry both in the Islamic world and in the West.
His writings were translated into Latin to spread knowledge and ideas far and wide.
Among his notable discoveries are hydrochloric acid (spirit of salt), sulfuric acid (oil of vitriol), gold water (royal water), and silver nitrate (hell's stone). He also explored practical applications of chemistry, such as steel production, waterproofing, and artificial pearl creation.



Saudi Northern Borders Witness Return of Diplotaxis

Photo by SPA
Photo by SPA
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Saudi Northern Borders Witness Return of Diplotaxis

Photo by SPA
Photo by SPA

The Saudi Northern Borders region, renowned for its diverse desert landscape, is witnessing the resurgence of the Diplotaxis, a vibrant yellow-flowered species that had become increasingly rare.
This resurgence is attributed to continuous conservation efforts, including the establishment of wildlife reserves and the implementation of stricter environmental protection laws, according to SPA.
Diplotaxis is an annual plant in the Northern Boreders region, typically reaching half a meter in height. Its hairy leaves, an adaptation to the harsh desert climate, help retain moisture. The plant thrives in gravelly soils and blooms in spring with fragrant yellow flowers.
Aman Environmental Association Board of Directors Chairman Nasser Al-Majlad told SPA that the early rainfall this year fostered the growth of numerous plant species, including Diplotaxis, which had been absent from the area for several years.
The Northern Borders region boasts a rich variety of plant life, including aromatic, seasonal, and annual species.

This diverse flora plays a crucial role in combating desertification, stabilizing soil, increasing biodiversity, and enhancing the region's environmental health. Moreover, it contributes to the region's tourism appeal.