A History of the Theories of Aether and Electricity from the Age of Descartes to the Close of the Nineteenth Century

Abstract

WHEN we turn to an historical survey of electrical theory we are usually entertained by reprints showing scenes like the Abbé Nollet demon strating the properties of an electrified boy, but the present work contains more satisfactory evidences of first-hand knowledge of the authorities. It traces carefully the growth, during three centuries, of optical and electrical science, more especially in relation to the theory of the æther. As regards mathe matical calculations, space is saved by expressing results in vector notation, as well as by numerous references to the original memoirs; the treatment of the more important advances, without being exaustive, is sufficiently adequate to define them clearly in their historical setting, that being the proper function of a work of this type.

A History of the Theories of Aether and Electricity from the Age of Descartes to the Close of the Nineteenth Century.

By Dr. E. T. Whittaker. Pp. xiv + 475. (London: Longmans, Green and Co.; Dublin: Hodges, Figgis and Co., Ltd., 1910.) Price 12s. 6d. net.