Scientist Research

America's emphasis on the importance of education for everyone has

encouraged the growth of scientific research. More Nobel prize-winning scientists have come from the United States than from any other country. Since 1900, Americans have received more than 100 Nobel prizes, more than three-fourths of them in the field of science. The great discoveries and achievements credited to Americans by the Nobel awards include the measurements of the speed of light, the effect of X rays on atoms, the function of chromosomes in heredity, and the production of the world's first maser. See NOBEL PRIZES.

In 1957, the Space Age began when Russia launched the first man-made

earth satellite. Competition among countries in the exploration of outer space suddenly became intense, especially between the United States and Russia. The opening of the Space Age also marked the beginning of intensified scientific research. In 1957, the U.S government spent about $4,462,000,000 for research and development in the sciences. In the early 1970's, it was spending more than $15 billion a year. American industry has also increased its research programs to produce new and better products and processes.

The tremendous expansion of scientific activity created a new challenge

for U.S colleges and universities, which train scientists and engineers. In addition, college laboratories conduct much of the search financed by government and industry. The emphasis on science has been reflected in the high schools and in some elementary schools, which have broadened their science courses.