Book dossier

Contributions to molecular physics in the domain of radiant heat

by John Tyndall

First edition of an important collection of memoirs, from Febr. 1861 on, in the field of Tyndall's major work, the effects of solar and heat radiation on atmospheric gases (1860-1870). He then considered the scattering of light particles in the atmosphere (the Tyndall effect) and explained the blue color of the sky (Rayleigh scattering). The scattering of sunlight by dust particles led him to consider means of destroying airborne organic matter by heat . Tyndall is remembered chiefly for his efforts to verify the high absorptive and radiative power of aqueous vapor; to measure the absorption and transmission of heat by many different gasses and liquids . Practical applications of his work in meteorology, fog signaling, and bacteriology were seen within his lifetime. . (DSB).