Linus Pauling Day 2023: Date, History, Facts about DNA

Linus Pauling Day occurs annually on February 28. Scientist, health advocate, and activist for peace. This author and educator’s list of accomplishments is as long as a thesis. The Oregon-born chemical engineer is renowned for his contributions to chemistry and biochemistry, particularly for shedding light on the nature of chemical bonds. Pauling, who is regarded as the founder of molecular biology, was awarded two Nobel Prizes: one in 1954 for Chemistry and another in 1962 for leading the fight against weapons of mass destruction and the nuclear arms race. The Oregon State University celebrates his achievements annually on his birthday, February 28.

The background of Linus Pauling Day

Linus Pauling was born in Portland, Oregon, where he first developed an interest in science. As a child, he collected laboratory equipment and conducted several at-home chemistry experiments. He spent all of his after-school time in the chemistry lab at his school.

In 1922, Pauling graduated from Oregon State College with a degree in chemical engineering. Soon thereafter, he became a Teaching Fellow at the California Institute of Technology, which became his second home. Throughout his career, the institute would also be the site of numerous scientific breakthroughs. He received a doctorate in physical chemistry and mathematical physics in 1925.

His early years at the California Institute of Technology were dominated by research on molecular structures. It was his “Pauling’s rules” that enabled scientists to accurately determine and predict crystal structures.

Midway through the 1930s, Pauling developed a keen interest in biological molecules such as protein. His research uncovered the molecular causes of sickle-cell anaemia, resulting in the birth of a new class of disease: the molecular disease. Additionally, he developed the ‘alpha helix’ and the structure of proteins. Many consider him the father of molecular biology due to these and other accomplishments. He authored hundreds of scientific papers and articles that influenced the development of chemistry at the time.

Pauling was awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1954. The subsequent years were a turning point for Pauling. The destruction caused by the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki had a profound effect on him. Alongside other scientists, he vehemently opposed the use of nuclear weapons in international politics. On October 10, 1963, Pauling was instrumental in getting the United States, Great Britain, and the Soviet Union to sign a nuclear test ban treaty. The Nobel Committee announced Pauling as the recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize on the same day.

National Essay Day 2023: Date, History, Facts, Activities

5 DNA facts that will blow your mind

Humans share 60 percent of their DNA with fruit flies, 40 to 60 percent with bananas, and 85 percent with mice.

Every day, the body undergoes approximately one million DNA mutations.

We share 99.0% of our DNA with chimpanzees and 98.7% with bonobos.

The DNA in the trillions of human cells would reach the sun and back 600 times if placed end-to-end.

DNA tests can help you identify ancestors who lived thousands of years ago.

LINUS PAULING DAY DATES

Year	Date	Day
2023	February 28	Tuesday
2024	February 28	Wednesday
2025	February 28	Friday
2026	February 28	Saturday
2027	February 28	Sunday