C.V. Raman Biography

[MysteRy]

Dr. CV Raman was a physicist, Nobel laureate, and Bharat Ratna recipient who was instrumental in India’s growth in the fields of science and physics. Let us read more about C.V. Raman, his childhood days, education, family, discoveries, awards, and achievements.   

Every year, November 7 commemorates the birth of Indian physicist Sir Chandrasekhara Venkata Raman. He discovered the Raman Effect on February 28, 1928, and for this discovery, he was honoured with the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1930.

C.V Raman: Biography

C.V. Raman, or Chandrasekhara Venkata Raman, was born on November 7, 1888, at Tiruchirappalli in southern India. His father was a lecturer in mathematics and physics. At a young age, he was exposed to an academic environment. His contribution to science and innovative research helped India and the world.

He discovered the Raman Effect and won a Nobel Prize in Physics for the discovery. Every year on February 28, National Science Day is celebrated to pay tribute to Nobel Laureate Dr. C.V. Raman.



Dr. Chandrasekhara Venkata Raman (C.V. Raman): Early Life and Family

Dr. C.V. Raman was born on 7th November 1888, in a Brahmin family from South India at Tiruchirappalli in Tamil Nadu. His father was Chandrasekhara Ramanathan Iyer. He was a mathematics and physics lecturer at a college in Vishakhapatnam. His mother's name was Parvathi Ammal.

C. V. Raman has always been a brilliant student since childhood. At the age of 11 years, he matriculated and 12th grade on scholarship. In the year 1902, he entered the Presidency College and was awarded his master's degree in 1904. At the time, he was the single student who topped the first division. He is a Master in Physics from the same college and shattered all earlier records. He married Lokasundari Ammal in 1907 and had two sons, Chandrasekhar and Radhakrishnan.

Dr. Chandrasekhara Venkata Raman (C.V. Raman): Career

Because of his father's interest, he appeared for the Financial Civil Services (FCS) examination and topped it. In 1907, he went to Calcutta (now Kolkata) and joined as an assistant accountant general. But in his spare time, he went to the laboratory to do research at the Indian Association for Cultivation of Sciences. Let us tell you that, his job was very hectic, and he also continued his research work at night due to his core interest in science.

Though the facilities available in the laboratory were very limited, he continued his research and published his findings in leading international journals, including 'Nature', 'The Philosophical Magazine', 'Physics Review', etc. At that time, his research was focused on the areas of vibrations and acoustics.

He got an opportunity to join the University of Calcutta in 1917 as the first Palit Professor of Physics. After 15 years at Calcutta, he became a Professor at the Indian Institute of Science at Bangalore from 1933 to 1948 and since 1948, he has been the Director of the Raman Institute of Research at Bangalore which was established and endowed by him only.

Dr. Chandrasekhara Venkata Raman (C.V. Raman): Works and Discovery

He established the Indian Journal of Physics in 1926 where he was the editor. He also sponsored the establishment of the Indian Academy of Sciences and served as the President since its inception. He was the President of the Current Science Association in Bangalore, which publishes Current Science (India).

In 1928, he wrote an article on the theory of musical instruments for the 8th Volume of the Handbuch der Physik. He published his work on the "Molecular Diffraction of Light" in 1922 which led to his ultimate discovery of the radiation effect on February 28, 1928, and earned him the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1930. He became the first Indian to receive a Nobel Prize.

Other research carried out by Dr. C.V. Raman was on the diffraction of light by acoustic waves of ultrasonic and hypersonic frequencies and the effects produced by X-rays on infrared vibrations in crystals exposed to ordinary light.

In 1948, he also studied the fundamental problems of crystal dynamics. His laboratory has been dealing with the structure and properties of diamonds, and the structure and optical behaviour of numerous iridescent substances like pearls, agate, opal, etc.

He was also interested in the optics of colloids, electrical and magnetic anisotropy, and the physiology of human vision.

No doubt, he was honoured with a large number of doctorates and memberships in scientific societies. In 1924, he was also elected as a Fellow of the Royal Society early in his career and was knighted in 1929.

As briefly described he is best known for discovering the 'Raman Effect' or the theory related to the scattering of light. He showed that when light traverses a transparent material, some of the deflected light changes its wavelength.

Dr. Chandrasekhara Venkata Raman (C.V. Raman): Awards and Honours



In 1970, he received a major heart attack while working in the laboratory. He took his last breath at the Raman Research Institute on 21st November 1970.

Dr. C.V. Raman was one of the great legends from India whose hard work and determination made India proud and became the first Indian to receive a Nobel Prize in Physics. He proved that, if a person wants to pursue his/her desires nobody can stop. His interest in science and dedication towards research work made him discover the Raman Effect. He will always be remembered as a great Scientist, Physicist, and Nobel laureate.

[MysteRy]

What Is The Raman Effect? The Nobel Prize Winning Physics Theory

Physicist CV Raman was born on November 7, 1888. In 1928, C.V. Raman discovered the Raman Effect, a groundbreaking light scattering phenomenon, earning him the Nobel Prize in Physics (1930). This discovery revolutionized molecular spectroscopy, aiding advancements in material science, chemistry, and biomedical research. Raman spectroscopy, leveraging this effect, is now vital in forensics, pharmaceuticals, and nanotechnology. Know about the Raman Effect here!



In a landmark lecture on March 16, 1928, Professor C.V. Raman introduced the world to a groundbreaking discovery—a new type of radiation emitted by atoms and molecules. The Raman Effect, a fundamental scattering phenomenon, was discovered on February 28, 1928. This phenomenon, now known as the Raman Effect, emerged from a simple yet profound experiment that revolutionised physics and chemistry. Conducted far from Western research hubs, this discovery garnered global recognition and earned Raman the Nobel Prize in Physics (1930).

What is the Raman Effect?

The Raman Effect is a fundamental scattering phenomenon that occurs when a transparent medium is illuminated by monochromatic light, causing the scattered radiation to contain spectral lines at frequencies different from the incident light. The frequency difference corresponds to the characteristic infrared absorption frequency of the molecule, providing direct experimental proof of the induced emission of radiation by molecules.

The discovery of the Raman Effect originated from the study of the blue colour of the Mediterranean Sea.

So let us understand in detail.

When light interacts with a molecule, the oscillating electromagnetic field of the photon distorts the molecular electron cloud, inducing polarisation.  This process temporarily elevates the molecule to a higher energy state as the photon transfers its energy.

This temporary state, often called the virtual state, represents a fleeting interaction between the photon and the molecule. Since this state is unstable, the photon is almost instantly re-emitted as scattered light.

In most cases, the scattered photon retains the same wavelength as the incident photon, indicating that the molecule’s energy remains unchanged. This phenomenon, known as Rayleigh scattering, is an example of elastic scattering, where the energy of the scattering particle is conserved.

However, in 1928, Sir C.V. Raman and his student K.S. Krishnan discovered an inelastic form of scattering. In this case, photons exchange energy with the molecules, leading to a shift in their wavelength. This phenomenon, now known as the Raman Effect, results in two possible outcomes:

Stokes Scattering: The molecule absorbs energy, causing the scattered photon to shift to a longer wavelength (redshift).
Anti-Stokes Scattering: The molecule releases energy, leading to a shift to a shorter wavelength (blueshift).
This discovery provided a significant breakthrough in molecular spectroscopy, enabling the study of vibrational and rotational energy transitions in different materials.



C.V. Raman’s Fascination with Light Scattering

C.V. Raman, educated entirely in India, gained recognition for his research in optics and acoustics. By the time he visited London in 1921, his work was already acknowledged by renowned physicists like J.J. Thomson and Lord Rutherford.



What were the reasons behind the discovery of the Raman's Effect?

C.V. Raman’s Fascination with Light Scattering, i.e., it was during his return voyage from London to Bombay aboard the SS Narkunda that his scientific journey took a transformative turn.

The discovery of the Raman Effect originated from the study of the blue colour of the Mediterranean Sea. In 1921, while crossing the Mediterranean, he became intrigued by the deep blue colour of the sea. Dissatisfied with the prevailing explanation that it was merely a reflection of the sky, he began formulating his hypothesis. Even before reaching Bombay, he penned a letter to the journal Nature detailing his thoughts on the matter.

Shortly thereafter, Raman provided conclusive evidence that the ocean’s colour resulted from the scattering of sunlight by water molecules—ironically, the same principle that explained why the sky appeared blue. This discovery fuelled his fascination with light scattering, leading his research team in Calcutta to conduct extensive experiments, primarily with liquids but also with solids. His findings further clarified the blue hue observed in Alpine glacier ice. All these observations made him experiments that led him to conclude that the colour was due to the scattering of light by the molecules of seawater. This observation sparked a series of experiments that ultimately led to the discovery of the Raman Effect.

Unveiling the Raman Effect

* Analysing scattered light, especially from liquids, was a challenging task. Early experiments in Calcutta relied on visual observations rather than precise wavelength measurements. In his groundbreaking study, Raman and his collaborator K.S. Krishnan filtered violet light through a liquid sample. Most of the scattered light retained its original violet hue, a phenomenon known as Rayleigh scattering. However, they noticed that a small fraction of the scattered light had shifted to a different colour, which they isolated using a green filter.

* Raman documented these findings in Nature, reporting that over 60 different liquids exhibited this colour shift. He described the phenomenon as universal.

* This effect, later termed the Raman Effect, demonstrated that when light interacts with molecules, a small portion changes wavelength. Given that only one in a million scattered photons exhibited this shift, the effect had remained undiscovered until Raman’s meticulous experiments.

* In the early stages, sunlight served as the primary light source, but it lacked the necessary intensity. In 1927, the Indian Association for the Cultivation of Science (IACS) acquired a refracting telescope, enabling Raman to focus sunlight more effectively.

* By 1928, with the advent of mercury arc lamps, he switched to an even more powerful light source, allowing for more precise investigations. Realising that qualitative observations alone would not suffice, Raman replaced visual inspections with a spectroscope to measure the exact wavelengths of scattered light.

* Later, he adopted a quartz spectrograph, enabling him to capture and analyse the spectral shifts more accurately. His breakthrough findings were formally published in the Indian Journal of Physics on March 31, 1928, cementing his legacy in the field of optical physics.

What were the steps followed by C.V. Raman during the experiments?

Steps Followed by him:



Significance of the Discovery

The discovery of the Raman Effect was a significant milestone in the field of spectroscopy. It provided a new tool for studying molecular vibrations and rotations, and it has since been used in a wide range of applications, including materials science, chemistry, and biology. The Raman Effect has also led to the development of new techniques such as Raman microscopy and surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy. Raman’s experiments led to many more significant results, as listed below:

- The Raman Effect was universal—observed in over 60 liquids.

- The shift in wavelength confirmed interactions between light and molecules.

- The discovery provided strong evidence for quantum theory.

- It remained undetected earlier due to its weak intensity (1 in a million photons change wavelength).

The Legacy of the Discovery

The discovery of the Raman Effect has had a profound impact on science and technology. It has led to the development of new techniques for studying materials and has found applications in a wide range of fields. The Raman Effect is a testament to the power of scientific curiosity and the importance of basic research.

The Raman Effect on Physics

The scientific community quickly acknowledged the significance of Raman’s discovery.

Scientific Impact:

- Professor R.W. Wood of Johns Hopkins verified and praised Raman’s discovery.

- The Raman Effect provided strong evidence for quantum theory.

- The discovery contributed to understanding atomic and molecular structures.

- More than 700 research papers on the Raman Effect were published within the first seven
   years.

The Raman Effect on Chemistry

By the late 1930s, chemists adopted the Raman Effect as a powerful analytical tool.

Applications in Chemistry:

- Material Identification: Each substance has a unique Raman spectrum, like a fingerprint.

- Quantitative Analysis: The intensity of Raman spectral lines correlates with concentration.

- Versatility: It applies to solids, liquids, gases, and even aqueous solutions.

- Limitations: Infrared spectroscopy, developed post-World War II, temporarily overshadowed Raman spectroscopy.

Raman Spectroscopy

Raman spectroscopy is a powerful analytical technique that utilises scattered light to examine the vibrational energy levels of molecules. This method is widely used to determine the chemical composition and structural characteristics of various substances.

One of the key advantages of Raman spectroscopy is its ability to provide a unique spectral "fingerprint" for material identification. The technique works by detecting Raman scattering, a phenomenon that occurs when light interacts with molecular vibrations, resulting in energy shifts that reveal essential information about the sample.

This method is suitable for analysing both organic and inorganic compounds in a non-destructive manner.

Types of Raman Spectroscopy:

1.Resonance Raman Spectroscopy (RRS): Enhances specific vibrational modes by tuning the excitation wavelength to an electronic transition of the molecule.

2.Surface-Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy (SERS): Increases signal intensity through interactions with nanostructured metallic surfaces.

3.Micro-Raman Spectroscopy – Enables high-resolution analysis of microscopic samples with precise spatial mapping.

4.Non-linear Raman Spectroscopic Techniques: Utilise advanced optical processes for improved sensitivity and selectivity in complex samples.

This technique is widely used in fields such as material science, pharmaceuticals, forensics, and environmental analysis due to its accuracy and versatility.

With the advent of lasers in the 1960s, Raman spectroscopy experienced a resurgence.

Modern Applications:

- Pharmaceutical Industry: Quality control and process monitoring.

- Forensic Science: Analysing drugs without opening evidence bags.

- Nuclear Waste Analysis: Using fibre-optic probes for remote sensing.

-Medical Research: Detecting biochemical changes linked to diseases like cancer.

Advancements in Raman Spectroscopy



Conclusion

The discovery of the Raman Effect was a landmark achievement in the field of spectroscopy. It has had a profound impact on science and technology, and it continues to be a valuable tool for studying materials and biological samples. The Raman Effect is a testament to the power of scientific curiosity and the importance of basic research.

[Ishaa]

Mystery sis ❤️ nice interesting post and I read it completely!!!
These are my kind of post! 🙈

Morning ae naan Physical Chemistry la vecha arrears a njabaga paduthi vithuthingalae🤣
So many flashbacks🙈🙈🙈
I passed later on my second try.
Iravum pagalum padichu. 🤣
But I will never forget Physical Chemistry and my physical chemistry prof🫡🫡🫡

[MysteRy]

Ishaa Sis 😊ahaa flashback aa☺️

Nice to know it Sis👌

So far ivar oda biography ila namma forum le adhan share pani irken 😊

Usefulla irkum  to those who needed his info Sis🙏

[MysteRy]

Famous CV Raman Quotes: CV Raman is an Indian physicist popular for his undying passion and dedication to science. Check out this article to explore the wisdom encapsulated in CV Raman's quotes, unravelling the mindset that propels him to push the boundaries.



Best CV Raman Quotes: Sir Chandrasekhara Venkata Raman was an Indian physicist. He received global popularity for his work in the field of light scattering.

This unique phenomenon, called "modified scattering," was later termed the Raman effect or Raman scattering. On the occasion of National Science Day, let’s discover more about him with his wise words and inspire generations to innovate.

50 Inspirational and Motivational Quotes by CV Raman















20 Famous CV Raman Quotes and Images











Conclusion

Sir C.V. Raman passed away on November 21, 1970, leaving behind a remarkable legacy. In addition to the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1930, he received numerous accolades, including the Bharat Ratna, India's highest civilian award, in 1954.

His contributions to science and his dedication to education continue to be celebrated, and his impact on the understanding of light scattering and molecular structure remains pivotal in the history of physics.

[Vethanisha]

Thanks for this article sis 😊 ❤️ my idol as well

[MysteRy]

Thanks for this article sis 😊 ❤️ my idol as well

[MysteRy]

February 28, celebrated as National Science Day in India, marks C.V. Raman's discovery of the Raman Effect (1928). A Nobel Laureate, Raman’s contributions to light scattering, acoustics, and quantum mechanics revolutionized physics and material science. The NSD 2025 theme, Empowering Indian Youth for Global Leadership in Science & Innovation, honors his legacy. Check here for his complete list of inventions and scientific contributions.



February 28, the day C.V. Raman discovered the Raman Effect in 1928, is celebrated as National Science Day in India. In 1986, the National Council for Science and Technology Communication (NCSTC) proposed that February 28 be designated as National Science Day. The Indian government accepted the proposal and officially declared the observance in the same year. February 28, 1987, marked the first National Science Day celebration in India.

National Science Day 2025 Theme:

The theme for National Science Day 2025 is "Empowering Indian Youth for Global Leadership in Science & Innovation for Viksit Bharat." The theme aims to inspire young minds, acknowledge pioneering contributions, and highlight India’s scientific advancements.

About Dr. C.V. Raman

Dr. Chandrasekhara Venkata Raman (7 November 1888 – 21 November 1970), commonly known as C. V. Raman, was an Indian physicist renowned for his research on light scattering. Using a spectrograph he designed, he and his student K. S. Krishnan discovered that when light passes through a transparent material, its scattered components change wavelength. This newly identified form of light scattering, initially called modified scattering, was later named the Raman Effect or Raman Scattering. In recognition of this groundbreaking discovery, Raman was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1930, becoming the first Asian and the first non-White recipient of a Nobel Prize in any scientific field. Now in this article, we will explore the list of his inventions & scientific contributions.

List of C.V. Raman Inventions and Scientific Contributions




Importance & Impact of Raman’s Discoveries:



Conclusion

C.V. Raman's groundbreaking discoveries revolutionised the fields of physics, optics, and material science. His pioneering work on light scattering, acoustics, and crystal physics laid the foundation for several modern scientific applications, including Raman spectroscopy, which is now an essential tool in chemical analysis, medical diagnostics, and space research.

His discovery of the Raman Effect not only earned him the Nobel Prize in Physics (1930) but also solidified India's position in the global scientific community. His extensive research on musical acoustics, photon spin, and the optical properties of materials continues to influence advancements in quantum mechanics, laser technology, and optical communication.

To honour his legacy, February 28 is celebrated as National Science Day in India, inspiring future generations to pursue scientific excellence. The theme of NSD 2025 is "Empowering Indian Youth for Global Leadership in Science & Innovation for Viksit Bharat," reflecting Raman’s vision of fostering innovation and scientific growth. His contributions remain a beacon of inspiration for young scientists, reinforcing India's commitment to becoming a global leader in science and technology.