Abstract
MR. J. E. H. GORDON has lately patented a method of producing light from electricity based upon Mr. Spottiswoode's suggestion to apply the alternating-current magnetoelectric machine of De Meritens to the induction-coil. Mr. Gordon arranges small balls of platinum or iridium, or of an alloy of these metals, at the ends of fine platinum rods in pairs in the middle of a suitable globe, and causes to pass between them a rapid succession of sparks whereby they are raised to incandescence. There is no consumption of carbon or any other substance, and the lamps may be connected either in series or in parallel branched arcs. The principal remaining disadvantage is the noise attendant on the rapid sparks. A mechanical contrivance is added to bring the knobs near together when no current is passing in the primary coil. The induction-coils used are of comparatively small size.
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Physical Notes . Nature 23, 133 (1880). https://doi.org/10.1038/023133a0
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/023133a0