Energy, Force and Matter: The Conceptual Development of Nineteenth-Century Physics / Edition 1

by Peter M. Harman

Overview

By focusing on the conceptual issues faced by nineteenth century physicists, this book clarifies the status of field theory, the ether, and thermodynamics in the work of the period. A remarkably synthetic account of a difficult and fragmentary period in scientific development.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780521288125
Publisher:	Cambridge University Press
Publication date:	04/30/1982
Series:	Cambridge Studies in the History of Science
Edition description:	New Edition
Pages:	196
Product dimensions:	5.43(w) x 8.50(h) x 0.51(d)

Table of Contents

Preface; 1. Introduction: The conceptual structure of nineteenth-century physics; 2. The context of physical theory: energy, force and matter; 3. Energy physics and mechanical explanation; 4. Matter and force: ether and field theories; 5. Matter theory: problems of molecular physics; 6. Epilogue: the decline of the mechanical world view; Bibliographic essay; Sources of Quotations; Index.

Editorial Reviews

"This is an interesting and well-written account of the transition of physics at the end of the 18th century as a synonym for natural philosophy to a distinct natural science with definite characteristics by the end of the 19th century." A.S. Crowell, Science Books & Films

"...for each chapter...a valuable extensive bibiliograhic essay...for reference and further reading." A.D. Crowell, Science Books & Films

From the Publisher