an infinity of systems of waves polarized (i. e. vibrating transversely) in all azimuths, and so, that there is as much polarized light in any one plane as in a plane perpendicular to it." Herschel says that Fresnel supposes the eye to be affected only by such vibrating motions of the etherial molecules as are performed in planes perpendicular to the direction of the rays. Now the effects in question seem to indicate bow the direct vibration of the luminous body may communicate transversal vibration in every azimuth to the molecules of the ether, and so account for that condition of it which is required to explain the phenomena.
129. When the star of ridges formed by a vibrating cylinder (119) upon the surface of water is witnessed instead of the series of circular waves that might be expected, it seems like the instant production of the phenomena of radiation by means of vibratory action. Whether the contiguous rarefied and condensed portions which I have supposed in air, gases, vapour and the ether, are arranged radially like the ridges in the experiment just quoted, or whether rare and dense alternate in the direction of the radii as well as laterally, is a question which may perhaps deserve investigation by experiment or calculation.
Royal Institution, July 30th, 1831.
To the Editors of the Philosophical Magazine and Journal.
Gentleman,—There are many facts which present themselves to observant men, which, though seen by them to be curious, interesting, and new to the world, are not considered worthy of distinct publication. I have often felt this conclusion to be objectionable, and am convinced that it is better to publish such facts, and even known facts under new forms, provided it be done briefly, clearly, and with no more pretension
- ↑ Philosophical Magazine, 1833, vol. iii. p. 241.
