Thomas Anderson (chemist)

Thomas Anderson (1819 – 19 October 1874) was a Scottish chemist, known for his work in organic chemistry and agricultural chemistry. He was born in Scotland and studied medicine at the University of Edinburgh, earning his MD in 1841. He furthered his studies in chemistry under Jöns Jakob Berzelius in Sweden and Justus von Liebig in Germany.

Upon his return to Scotland, Anderson became a lecturer in chemistry at the Edinburgh Veterinary College. In 1852, he was appointed Regius Professor of Chemistry at the University of Glasgow, succeeding Thomas Thomson, a position he held until his death.

Anderson made significant contributions to the analysis of organic compounds, particularly those found in opium. He isolated and characterized several alkaloids, including codeine, thebaine, and narcotine, improving upon the existing understanding of their chemical structures. He is also credited with the discovery of pyridine bases in bone oil, further developing the field of organic nitrogen chemistry.

Beyond opium alkaloids and pyridine bases, Anderson conducted extensive research in agricultural chemistry. He analyzed various soils and fertilizers, contributing to the development of scientific principles for crop production and soil management. His research helped to improve agricultural practices in Scotland and beyond.

Anderson was a Fellow of the Royal Society of Edinburgh and the Royal Society of London. His work was highly respected in the scientific community of his time, and he left a lasting legacy in the fields of both organic and agricultural chemistry.