He discovered the solution by accident when someone left a sample of rubber and sulfur on a stove. Was this a scientific discovery?

Question

Charles Goodyear was a scientist

Answer 1

Yes, it was termed vulcanization or sulfur vulcanization. This allows for rubber or other polymeric systems to increase in mechanical integrity. Sulfur works in this reaction by forming cross linking bridges between sections of polymer chains which increases the mechanical strength. Many products are made with vulcanized rubber, including car tires, shoe soles, hoses, and even conveyor belts.