4
$\begingroup$

When was the unit "electronvolt" (eV) first introduced, and by whom?

The definition of the eV requires the knowledge of the electron charge $e$, so it must have been introduced after 1909, the date of the famous oil drop experiment conducted by R. A. Millikan and H. Fletcher, in which, as far as I know, $e$ was measured for the first time.

$\endgroup$

1 Answer 1

3
$\begingroup$

The OED's "electronvolt" entry gives this as the earliest usage in English:

ibid., p. 549

But it defines what its measure is, not what it is.

$\endgroup$

Your Answer

By clicking “Post Your Answer”, you agree to our terms of service and acknowledge that you have read and understand our privacy policy and code of conduct.

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged or ask your own question.