Dorothy Hodgkin was a famed British chemist known for her pioneering work in the field of X-ray crystallography. The name "Dorothy Hodgkin" is spelled as /ˈdɒrəθi ˈhɒdʒkɪn/ in IPA phonetic transcription. The first syllable "Dor" is pronounced with the short "o" sound, while the second syllable "thy" has a long "ee" sound. The surname "Hodgkin" is pronounced with the "hod-j-kin" sound, with stress on the second syllable. Overall, the spelling of "Dorothy Hodgkin" accurately reflects the pronunciation of her name.
Dorothy Hodgkin, born on May 12, 1910, and passing away on July 29, 1994, was a British chemist and crystallographer. She is best remembered for her pioneering contributions to the field of X-ray crystallography and her remarkable work in the determination of molecular structures, particularly the structures of complex chemical compounds, including steroids, vitamins, and proteins. Hodgkin's ground-breaking discoveries utilizing X-ray crystallography techniques became crucial in deciphering the three-dimensional arrangements of atoms within these compounds.
Hodgkin's most significant achievement was her determination of the structure of insulin, a hormone crucial for regulating blood sugar levels, which she accomplished in 1969. This breakthrough revolutionized the understanding and treatment of diabetes, as it provided crucial insights into the hormone's functional mechanism. This accomplishment earned her the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1964, making her the third woman to receive this prestigious award.
Throughout her career, Hodgkin emphasized the application of science to real-world problems and dedicated significant efforts to advancing the understanding of chemical structures related to human health and diseases. Besides her contributions to science, she was also active in advocating for peace and was involved in various humanitarian efforts.
Hodgkin's pioneering work and her dedication to fostering interdisciplinary collaborations have left an enduring impact on the field of chemistry and structural biology. Her groundbreaking research continues to inspire future generations of scientists and serves as a testament to the significant contributions women scientists have made in advancing scientific knowledge and understanding.
The word "Dorothy Hodgkin" does not have a specific etymology, as it is a proper noun consisting of the name of a person. "Dorothy Hodgkin" refers to the English biochemist and Nobel laureate Dorothy Mary Crowfoot Hodgkin. Her name is derived from the given name "Dorothy", which originates from the Greek "Dorothea", meaning "gift of God", and the surname "Hodgkin". The surname "Hodgkin" is of English origin, and it typically refers to a person originally from the county of Hodgekinshire in England. However, it is important to note that "Dorothy Hodgkin" specifically refers to the person and not a word with its own etymology.