Classics of modern science : $b (Copernicus to Pasteur)
History
Classics of modern science : $b (Copernicus to Pasteur)
Science; Science -- History
40. In this experiment the magnet must not be passed entirely through
the helix, for then a second action occurs. When the magnet is
introduced the needle at the galvanometer is deflected in a certain
direction; but being in, whether it be pushed quite through or
withdrawn, the needle is deflected in a direction the reverse of that
previously produced. When the magnet is passed in and through at one
continuous motion, the needle moves one way, is then suddenly stopped,
and finally moves the other way.
41. If such a hollow helix as that described (34) be laid east and west
(or in any other constant position), and a magnet be retained east and
west, its marked pole always being one way; then whichever end of the
helix the magnet goes in at, and consequently whichever pole of the
magnet enters first, still the needle is deflected the same way: on the
other hand, whichever direction is followed in withdrawing the magnet,
the deflection is constant, but contrary to that due to its entrance.
57. The various experiments of this section prove, I think, most
completely the production of electricity from ordinary magnetism.
That its intensity should be very feeble and quantity small,
cannot be considered wonderful, when it is remembered that like
thermo-electricity it is evolved entirely within the substance of
metals retaining all their conducting power. But an agent which is
conducted along the metallic wires in the manner described; which,
whilst so passing possesses the peculiar magnetic actions and force
of a current of electricity; which can agitate and convulse the limbs
of a frog; and which, finally, can produce a spark by its discharge
through charcoal (32), can only be electricity. As all the effects can
be produced by ferruginous electro-magnets (34), there is no doubt that
arrangements like the magnets of Professors Moll, Henry, Ten Eyke, and
others, in which as many as two thousand pounds have been lifted, may
be used for these experiments; in which case not only a brighter spark
may be obtained, but wires also ignited, and, as the current can pass
liquids (23), chemical action be produced. These effects are still
more likely to be obtained when the magneto-electric arrangements to
be explained in the fourth section are excited by the powers of such
apparatus.
58. The similarity of action, almost amounting to identity, between
common magnets and either electro-magnets or volta-electric currents,
is strikingly in accordance with and confirmatory of M. Ampère’s
theory, and furnishes powerful reasons for believing that the action
is the same in both cases; but, as a distinction in language is still
necessary, I propose to call the agency thus exerted by ordinary
magnets, magneto-electric or magnelectric induction (26).
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