| Reference number | MC/27/156 |
| Alternative reference number | 12156 |
| Level | Item |
| Title | Letter from [Augustus] Vernon Harcourt, Runton Hill, West Runton, Norfolk, to [Joseph] Larmor, [Royal Society] |
| Creator | Harcourt; Augustus George Vernon (1834 - 1919) |
| Date | 30 April 1912 |
| Description | Discusses at length a paper by William Esson, addressing concerns about an appendix written by Esson regarding chemical changes and temperature variation. Harcourt points out that Esson's formula may not be applicable in a majority of cases due to the complexity of chemical reactions. He suggests that a selection should have been made, rejecting cases where the nature of the reaction was likely to vary with temperature.
Harcourt expresses his belief that the error lies in the lack of rejection, on chemical grounds, of cases with potential variation in reaction nature. He mentions his past experience with physicists' unfamiliarity with the complexity of chemical changes and provides an example involving the heat produced when zinc and copper are alloyed to form brass.
Harcourt expresses concern about potential complications in Esson's calculations and mentions his faith in Esson's calculation of the constants of his equation. He contemplates the idea of seeking a place at the Davy Faraday Laboratory to explore more cases of observable chemical change if he were younger.
In the postscript, Harcourt mentions his return to Cadogan Square, asks for a list of papers with results Esson has dealt with, and expresses hope for the truth to emerge, especially with the involvement of younger researchers. Harcourt also seeks advice from the Royal Society and suggests involving individuals such as Rayleigh or Rücker for their opinions on Esson's formula. |
| Extent | 2p |
| Format | Manuscript |
| Physical description | Ink on paper |
| Access status | Open |
Fellows associated with this archive
| Code | Name | Dates |
| NA8233 | Harcourt; Augustus George Vernon (1834 - 1919) | 1834 - 1919 |
| NA7894 | Larmor; Sir; Joseph (1857 - 1942); physicist | 1857 - 1942 |
| NA6346 | Esson; William (? 1838 - 1916); astronomer and chemist | ? 1838 - 1916 |