Energy, Force and Matter
The Conceptual Development of Nineteenth-Century Physics

A remarkably synthetic account of a difficult and fragmentary period in scientific development.

Peter M. Harman (Author)

9780521288125, Cambridge University Press

Paperback, published 30 April 1982

196 pages
21.6 x 13.8 x 1.3 cm, 0.267 kg

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

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.

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.

Subject Areas: History of science [PDX]