(1) The Basis of Modern Atomic Theory (2) Die Konstitution der chemischen Atome: Mechanische Theorien in Physik und Chemie

Abstract

WHATEVER properties may ultimately be assigned to the atom, there is one which cannot be omitted—its power to seize and captivate the human mind. In fact, if we judged by the output of the printing press in the last few years, we might not unfairly assume that no sooner does any one fall within the sphere of influence of this radiating personality than he is seized with an irresistible determination to go home and write a book about it. Nor is this proselytising zeal confined to the pure physicist, whose protege the atom may be presumed to be. We have books on the atom, some of them quite well done, by chemists, by mathematicians, by technicians, and by journalists, and addressed to all sorts and conditions of readers. Thus we have “Atoms for Amateurs,” “Atoms for Adepts,” “Atoms for Adolescents,” “Atoms for Archdeacons,“ “All about Atoms for Anybody”—these are not the exact titles, but they indicate the scope of the volumes well enough—in fact, there seems to be a determination that no class of reader shall be left without an exposition of the subject suited to his condition and attainments. As these volumes continue to pour forth-there are two fresh ones before us as we write—we must assume that they find purchasers and readers. If we add to these the enormous output of serious scientific contributions from the many laboratories engaged in investigating the structure and properties of the atom, it is clear that this infinitesimal particle exerts an attraction unique in the history of science over the minds and imaginations of many types of men.

(1) The Basis of Modern Atomic Theory.

By C. H. Douglas Clark. Pp. xx + 292. (London: Methuen and Co., Ltd., 1926.) 8s. 6d. net.

(2) Die Konstitution der chemischen Atome: Mechanische Theorien in Physik und Chemie.

Von Prof. Dr. Arthur Korn. Pp. 159. (Berlin: Georg Siemens, 1926.) 7.50 gold marks.