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Incoming links: Macquorn Rankine in the University of Glasgow Story
W. J. M. Rankine Created 2026-10-24 Updated 2026-11-05
W. J. M. Rankine was a Scottish engineer and physicist who contributed to thermodynamics, classical mechanics and the teaching of engineering. As professor of civil engineering and mechanics at Glasgow from 1855 to 1872, he emphasized connecting theory with practice and worked with shipbuilders on vessels and engines.[ref]
Macquorn Rankine in the University of Glasgow Story. Biographical account: professorship, research and collaboration with shipbuilders
The Rankine cycle connects his name with the analysis of heat engines using a working fluid that undergoes vaporization and condensation. Its idealized sequence of pumping, heating, expansion and cooling connects a practical steam engine to a calculation of mechanical work and thermal efficiency. The broader importance of his work lies in making quantitative physical theory part of systematic engineering design.
Institutional historical profile: Imperial College historical plaque booklet: William John Macquorn Rankine.
Portrait of William John Macquorn Rankine
. Thomas Annan, photograph made before his death in 1887; National Galleries of Scotland, PGP R 2115.24. Restoration by Adam Cuerden. Commons marks the photograph and faithful reproduction public domain, including expired U.S. copyright; Public Domain Mark. The restoration's stated unrestricted permission requests attribution where possible. Source.