Francesco Grimaldi

Francesco Grimaldi (2.IV 1618 - 28.XII 1663) - Italian scientist. Born in Bologna, where in 1637 - 45 he studied philosophy, rhetoric, theology, in 1647 received a doctorate degree, was a teacher (first philosophy and then mathematics) Bologna Jesuit College. In 1651 became the priest.

The main essay Grimaldi "Physical science is about light, colors and the rainbow", which contains most of the results of its activities as an experimental physicist and philosopher, was published in 1665, after his death. Discovered the diffraction of light, it is systematically studied and formulated some rules. In his work, described the phenomenon of propagation of light, reflection, refraction, diffraction, vision, outlined his ideas (though controversial) on the nature of light, developed a theory of colors, considering the color of "a modification of light". Described the solar spectrum obtained with the help of a prism. Together with Dzh.Richchioli identified (1662) value of the Earth's surface.