Definition
Antoine Lavoisier (1743-1794) was a French chemist considered the 'father of modern chemistry.' He revolutionized the field by emphasizing quantitative experiments and careful measurements. Lavoisier discovered the role of oxygen in combustion and respiration, disproving the phlogiston theory. He also helped develop a modern system of chemical nomenclature. Sadly, he was guillotined during the French Revolution, a tragic loss to science. His contributions laid the groundwork for modern chemistry.