Linus Pauling Day

Pauling’s interest in vitamin C started in the 1960s after meeting Dr. Irwin Stone, who proposed vitamin C’s potential to boost immunity and possibly prevent colds.

Stone’s unconventional ideas inspired Pauling to study vitamin C’s health benefits.

Pauling later advocated for high doses, sparking both interest and controversy in the medical field.

This eventually led to the popularity of vitamin C as a supplement, though experts still debate the merits of Pauling’s dosages.

Pauling received two unshared Nobel Prizes, an uncommon achievement.

He won the 1954 Nobel Prize in Chemistry for his work on chemical bonds, and the 1962 Nobel Peace Prize for his efforts to end nuclear testing.

Notably, he kept his Peace Prize medal in a drawer for years, saying that fame for peace work felt awkward to him.

A common myth is that Pauling suggested vitamin C could “cure” cancer.

In reality, he believed it might boost immunity and lessen cancer treatment side effects, though he never claimed it as a cure.

Even so, his theories about vitamin C sparked debates and inspired both scientific studies and public enthusiasm for supplements.

Oregon State University, where Pauling studied and taught, hosts a science fair annually to honor his contributions.

Meanwhile, some chemistry students in Japan gather for “Pauling Night,” an informal meeting to discuss groundbreaking scientific discoveries.

In Brazil, a group of science enthusiasts holds a “Vitamin C Day,” raising awareness about nutrition in his memory.

Pauling loved hiking in the California mountains. He often reflected on scientific questions while walking, a routine that helped him relax.

Pauling also enjoyed cooking, specifically soups rich in vitamin C. Colleagues remember him experimenting with fruit and vegetable dishes to get the most out of his favorite nutrient.

Pauling used a ball-and-stick model to visualize atomic bonds, an approach less common in the early 20th century.

His models gave him new insights into chemical bonding, ultimately helping him understand complex protein structures.

This hands-on approach remains part of chemistry classrooms worldwide, even though technology now offers 3D models and simulations.

Yes, Pauling’s endorsement of vitamin C sparked a backlash. Medical organizations questioned his high-dose recommendations, calling them unproven.

Despite this, he stood by his claims, stating that he valued scientific curiosity over conformity. His courage in facing criticism inspired future researchers to explore controversial topics.

Pauling popularized the concept of electronegativity, helping chemists predict molecular behavior.

His ideas influenced the field of quantum chemistry, providing a foundation for future discoveries. Even today, electronegativity values are essential for studying chemical reactions in laboratories worldwide.

Scientists recognize Pauling as a pioneer who brought chemistry to the public.

His work encouraged scientists to explore interdisciplinary approaches, blending chemistry, biology, and physics.

Today, Pauling’s influence remains strong, as universities offer scholarships and programs named in his honor, emphasizing research across scientific fields.

In Pauling’s honor, some people eat foods rich in vitamin C, like kiwi, strawberries, and bell peppers.

Nutritionists suggest making “Pauling Smoothies,” with vitamin C-packed fruits like oranges, pineapples, and mangoes, to celebrate the day. This tasty tribute highlights his love for nutrition and wellness.