Synopsis
This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can usually download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1878 edition. Excerpt: ...It appears to be tho law of all thoso forces whose action is perceptible at sensible distances, as in the case of electrical and magnetic force. One of the remarkable properties of this law is that, if the dimensions of all the bodies in the universe, together with their mutual distances, and their velocities, were proportionally increased or diminished, they would still describe curves precisely similar to those which they now describe; so that the universe, after be.ng thus successively reduced to the smallest conceivable limits, would still always present the same appearance to the observer. These appearances are consequently independent of tho dimensions of tho universe, as, in virtue of the Jaw of the ratio which exists between forco and velocity, they are independent of absolute movement in spaco." Cosmos Vol. Y. Page 16. Did the above expression require dimensions, distances and times of revolution to bo proportionately increased or diminished it weu.td bo correct, but it is not as it stands, for if masses and distances should both be doubled or halved in either case velocities would remain constant and with orbits twice or only one half as large and velocities the same the planets would not retain their rolativo positions nor the Solar System the same aspect for a single hour. The error lies in not making orbital motion the result of gravitating force. I think now that I have established a doctrine contrary to Conservation in the motions of the planets around their centers and shown thai their revolutions are caused by constantly received and constantly neutralised Gravitation. But I claim that axial motion as well, is wholly produced by Gravity and lay down the following law: § 43. The doctrine of the Composition of...
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