Claire Cameron Patterson

Claire Cameron Patterson (1922-1995) was an American geochemist best known for his pioneering work in determining the age of the Earth. In 1956, he published results indicating that Earth is approximately 4.55 billion years old, a groundbreaking discovery that significantly altered geological science. Patterson also played a crucial role in environmental science by highlighting the dangers of lead pollution, leading to significant public health reforms. Despite facing resistance from industries benefiting from lead use, his persistence helped catalyze the eventual banning of leaded gasoline in the U.S. His innovative techniques in mass spectrometry and unwavering commitment to scientific integrity contributed to his legacy as a key figure in both geology and environmental health.