Isaac Newton's Beer-Based Ink Linked to His Groundbreaking Scientific Works
New research reveals that Newton used homemade ink with beer as a key ingredient to pen his revolutionary theories, with his beer mug set to go on display for the first time in 160 years.
- A study published in the Royal Society's journal Notes and Records suggests Isaac Newton used ink made with beer to write his influential works, including Principia Mathematica.
- Two ink recipes attributed to Newton were uncovered, one using wine and the other using 'strong beer or ale,' believed to have been widely used by the scientist during his time at Cambridge.
- Newton's beer mug, which he reportedly passed to his roommate John Wickins, has been traced through historical records and will be displayed at the Royal Society in London starting March 4.
- The ink's durability has preserved Newton's manuscripts, with researchers noting that the text still appears freshly written centuries later.
- While Newton sparingly drank beer and ale, his surviving papers contain references to alcoholic beverages, including discussions on cider production and apple varieties.