IV. On Laplace’s Correction for the Velocity of Sound. | By JOHN TYNDALL, F.R.S.
To the Editors of the Philosophical Magazine and Journal.
GENTLEMEN,
IN the last November Number of the Philosophical Magazine I published a brief “Note on Laplace’s Correction for the Theoretic Velocity of Sound,”2 the main point of which was to show that the extraordinary radiant and absorbent power which recent experiments have proved to be possessed by various gases and vapours, would, in all probability, affect the correction to be applied to the velocity of sound through such gases and vapours. The portion of the note which refers to this point, resting as it does on sure experiments, will, I think, always retain its force and pertinence: this portion terminates with the words “nor could a correct ratio be deduced from the velocity of sound in the medium.”
The remaining portion of the note I would ask permission to cancel for the present.3 I have recently made some experiments with a view to testing the possible influence of radiation; and if the continuance of these should lead to any definite result, they shall in due time be communicated to the Philosophical Magazine.
I am, Gentlemen, | Your obedient Servant, | JOHN TYNDALL.
J. Tyndall, ‘On Laplace’s Correction for the Velocity of Sound,’ Phil. Mag., 27 (1864), p. 41
[December 1863]: the month and year are given based on Tyndall’s mention of the November 1863 issue and that this letter to the editor was published in the January 1864 issue.
I published a brief “Note on Laplace’s Correction for the Theoretic Velocity of Sound,”: J. Tyndall, ‘Note on Laplace’s Correction for the Theoretic Velocity of Sound’, Phil. Mag., 26 (1863), pp. 384–7.
The remaining portion… cancel for the present: here Tyndall was addressing points that Rudolf Clausius had suggested he tackle in his essay (see letter 2048).
Please cite as “Tyndall2057,” in Ɛpsilon: The John Tyndall Collection accessed on