1911-1997

American biochemist who first determined many of the chemical reactions that take place during photosynthesis. Using radioactive carbon-14, paper chromatography, and patience Calvin spent many years tracing the chemical processes that take place during photosynthesis. This helped to unravel one of the most important biochemical processes on Earth because most life depends either directly or indirectly on photosynthesis for food. Calvin was awarded the 1961 Nobel Prize in Chemistry for his work.