Who is credited with discovering formaldehyde?

The individual credited with discovering formaldehyde is Auguste Hoffman. He was a German chemist who isolated this compound in 1867 while attempting to synthesize more complex organic compounds. Hoffman’s work significantly contributed to the understanding and utilization of formaldehyde in various applications, particularly in the fields of chemistry and biology. His discovery paved the way for further research into the properties and potential uses of formaldehyde, including its role as an antimicrobial agent and a preservative in biological specimens.

The other figures mentioned, while noteworthy in their own right, were not responsible for the discovery of formaldehyde. William Hunter was involved in anatomical studies, Dr. Fredrick Ruysch was known for his work in anatomy and preservation techniques, and Dr. Thomas Holmes is recognized for his work on embalming but did not discover formaldehyde itself. Therefore, Auguste Hoffman stands out as the correct choice for the discovery of formaldehyde.