Big Ben: London's Iconic Clock Tower

Big Ben, a clock tower in London, is renowned for its Great Clock and iconic bell. Completed in 1859, it stands 96 meters tall with faces made of opal glass. The Bell Room houses five bells, including the hour bell, Big Ben, named after Ben Hall. The clock mechanism, designed by Edmund Beckett Dennison and George Airy, remains original and functional. The Great Bell cracked shortly after installation and has a unique sound since its repair.

What was the original purpose of the clock mechanism designed by Edmund Beckett Dennison?

What happened to the great bell two months after it went into service?