Record

RefNoMS/603/8/100
Previous numbers1438
LevelItem
TitleLetter from John Milne, Shide Hill House, Shide, Newport, Isle of Wight, to [Joseph] Larmor
CreatorMilne; John (1850-1913); British geologist and seismologist
RecipientLarmor; Sir Joseph (1857-1942); Irish theoretical physicist
Date1 January 1899
DescriptionHe thanks Larmor for his suggestion, but it doesn not explain why preliminary tremors travel at rates of 6-12 kilometers per second. The velocity of big waves is constant at 2.75 kilometers per second. If each travelled around the world, then each observing station should get two sets of diagrams, but they don't. He explains that prelimary tremors reach their highest velocity at the centre of the Earth, while big waves are distortional and not affected by pressure. He gives a sketch of the waves from a seismograph, noting the relationship between the two wave types and why the prelimary waves have a longer duration, illustrated by a sketch. Milne has discussed this with [Oliver] Heaviside, who 'does not seem to see it'. He aks Larmor to think of a theory to fit the leading facts. [Cargill Gilston] Knott has some good ideas which he is turning into a paper for the Philosophical Magazine at Kelvin's request. Milne laments having to work in a damp stable as a headquarters for 25 stations, believing there will be a breakdown if they don't get out of the place soon.
Extent4p.
FormatManuscript
PhysicalDescriptionInk on paper
AccessStatusOpen
Add to My Items

    Collection highlights

    Browse the records of some of our collections, which cover all branches of science and date from the 12th century onwards. These include the published works of Fellows of the Royal Society, personal papers of eminent scientists, letters and manuscripts sent to the Society or presented at meetings, and administrative records documenting the Society's activities since our foundation in 1660.

    The Royal Society

    The Royal Society is a Fellowship of many of
    the world's most eminent scientists and is the
    oldest scientific academy in continuous existence.
    Registered charity number 207043

    Website design ©CalmView



    CONTACT US

    + 44 207 451 2500
    (Lines open Mon-Fri, 9:00-17:00. Excludes bank holidays)

    6-9 Carlton House Terrace, London SW1Y 5AG

    Email Us →

    SUBSCRIBE

    Subscribe to our newsletters to be updated with the
    latest news on innovation, events, articles and reports.

    Subscribe →

    © CalmView