Description
This collection documents Clair Patterson (1922-1995), a geochemist at the University of Chicago and California Institute
of Technology. Patterson was best known for determining the age of the earth and the solar system, and for his pioneering
work on global lead contamination.
Background
Geochemist Clair Patterson is best known for his determination of the age of the Earth and the solar system, and for his pioneering
work on global lead contamination. His research affected the work of many other scientists involved in environmental chemistry
and geochemistry. His findings brought about a substantial improvement in the quality of human life by initiating government
policies to control the amount of lead in the environment and reduce human exposure to lead.
Restrictions
Copyright may not have been assigned to the California Institute of Technology Archives. All requests for permission to publish
or quote from manuscripts must be submitted in writing to the Head of the Archives. Permission for publication is given on
behalf of the California Institute of Technology Archives as the owner of the physical items and is not intended to include
or imply permission of the copyright holder, which must also be obtained by the reader.
Availability
The collection is open for research. Researchers must apply in writing for access.