The Sub-Atoms: an Interpretation of Spectra inconformity with the Principles of Mechanics

Abstract

THIS book describes an attempt to explain spectroscopic phenomena in terms of a model of the atom conforming to Newtonian mechanics. The author assumes the existence of ‘sub-atoms’, each of which consists of an ellipsoidal or similarly shaped mass of positive electricity, of charge e, on which rests a smaller negative electron (charge, -e). The linear dimensions of the sub-atoms are inversely as their masses, and the atom of any element consists of that particular stable association of sub-atoms which will explain simultaneously its mass, atomic volume and spectrum. For the lightest eight elements these considerations give a unique structure, but more work is required on the heavier atoms.

The Sub-Atoms: an Interpretation of Spectra inconformity with the Principles of Mechanics.

By William Mayo Venable. Pp. viii + 148. (Baltimore, Md.: The Williams and Wilkins Co.; London: Baillière, Tindall and Cox, 1933.) 9s.