| RefNo | MS/603/11/111 |
| Previous numbers | 2053 |
| Level | Item |
| Title | Letter from H W [Henry William] Watson, Berkeswell, to [Joseph] Larmor |
| Creator | Watson; Henry William (1827-1903); British clergyman |
| Recipient | Larmor; Sir Joseph (1857-1942); Irish theoretical physicist |
| Date | 20 February 1888 |
| Description | Watson notes that the point raised by Larmor in his treatment of E.M.F. [electro-magnetic force] in moving conductors has clarified his views, and therefore he may be inclined to exaggerate its importance. He thinks that attempts to determine elementary E.M.F., as distinguished from a cicruit must be inconclusive; and it is unreasonable to suppose that E.M.F. from motion can take cognisence of anything beyond relative motion. He discusses example of expressions used needlessly, giving equations for each element of a circuit at rest, and others.He thinks Larmor has done 'yeoman's work' and that he should agree with Watson's contentions on a shorter form. He agrees with Larmor in his assessment of [William Davidson] Niven's and [Horace] Lamb's papers. Watson believes that 'the attempt to construct a strict mathematical theory is limited by the carelessness of phsyicists who are indifferent to anything but results...'. |
| Extent | 4p. |
| Format | Manuscript |
| PhysicalDescription | Ink on paper |
| AccessStatus | Open |
Fellows associated with this archive
| Code | PersonName | Dates |
| NA6045 | Watson; Henry William (1827 - 1903) | 1827 - 1903 |