http://www.ck12.org Chapter 1. Introduction to Physical Science
TABLE1.1:(continued)
Scientist Contribution
Ada E. Yonath (1939–present) Ada E. Yonath was a co-winner of the 2009 Nobel prize
in chemistry. She made important discoveries about
ribosomes, the structures in living cells where proteins
are made.Mario Molina (1943–present) Mario Molina is a Mexican-born scientist who won
the 1995 Nobel prize for chemistry. He helped to
discover how the ozone layer in the atmosphere is being
destroyed by pollution. He has received more than 18
honorary degrees for his contributions and even has an
asteroid named after him.Summary
- Cultural, social, and economic biases have made it far harder for women and people of color than for white
males to excel in science. This explains why there have been fewer scientists among their ranks. - Despite their relative lack of opportunities, women and people of color have made many important contribu-
tions to science, and several have won Nobel prizes for their discoveries.
Explore More
Watch this video about three young female scientists at NASA, and then answer the questions below.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qv-ZNyFVat4 (6:45)
MEDIA
Click image to the left for use the URL below.
URL: http://www.ck12.org/flx/render/embeddedobject/54919- What are some of the contributions that the three NASA scientists have made to science and engineering?
- What advice do the three scientists give to girls who want to become scientists or engineers?
Review
- What factors explain why women and people of color are underrepresented in science?
- Identify two female scientists and state their contributions to science.