| RefNo | MS/603/9/194 |
| Previous numbers | 1744 |
| Level | Item |
| Title | Letter from E [Ernest] Rutherford, Physical Laboratories, The University, Manchester, to [Joseph] Larmor |
| Creator | Rutherford; Ernest; Baron Rutherford of Nelson (1871-1937); New Zealand physicist |
| Recipient | Larmor; Sir Joseph (1857-1942); Irish theoretical physicist |
| Date | 2 July 1908 |
| Description | When in London he heard that [William] Ramsay has communicated a paper to the Royal Society on the spectrum of radium emanations, and Rutherford asks for the gist of it. He asks because he is thinking about an account of his own work in this area, done some weeks ago. He notes having spoken to Ramsay at the Royal Society on 18 June, saying that he had proven him wrong, and Ramsay was anxious for details. Rutherford laments his 'foolish generosity' of giving him information, and Ramsay had said that he had tried for three months to get the emanation spectrum but without success. It is a remarkable coincidence that the paper should be submitted to the Royal Society a week after Rutherford had spoken with him. When Rutherford publishes he wishes to do justice to Ramsay, but the timing of the information and the reception of Ramsay's paper may be significant. In a day or so he will give Larmor an item of news which is interesting and important and he relies on Larmor's discretion not to give a hint of what is happening, as his experience with Ramsay has shown him the importance of secrecy. Ramsay will get no more information from Rutherford. He apologises for being mysterious, but will tell Larmor before publication, and it is possible that Ramsay may hit on the same thing. |
| Extent | 8p. |
| Format | Manuscript |
| PhysicalDescription | Ink on paper |
| AccessStatus | Open |
Fellows associated with this archive
| Code | PersonName | Dates |
| NA8278 | Rutherford; Ernest (1871 - 1937); Baron Rutherford of Nelson | 1871 - 1937 |