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Lot #411
William Thomson, 1st Baron Kelvin Autograph Letter Signed

"I find that every dynamical problem of two freedoms is reducible to the drawing of geodetic lines on a sufficiently determined surface"

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Estimate: $400+
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Description

"I find that every dynamical problem of two freedoms is reducible to the drawing of geodetic lines on a sufficiently determined surface"

British mathematical physicist and engineer (1824-1907) who, as the Professor of Natural Philosophy at the University of Glasgow for 53 years, did important work in the mathematical analysis of electricity and formulation of the first and second laws of thermodynamics, and did much to unify the emerging discipline of physics in its modern form. He received the Royal Society's Copley Medal in 1883, was its President between 1890-1895, and in 1892 was the first British scientist to be elevated to the House of Lords. ALS signed “Kelvin,” four pages on two adjoining sheets, 4.5 x 7, Netherhall letterhead, September 15, 1892. Handwritten letter to "Bishop," in part: "I should have written sooner to thank you for your kindness in sending me your two papers which I find very interesting especially with reference to relation of umbilici to foci, on which I have been much exercised for some time in connection with dynamical problems which I have in hand. What I have specially concerned myself with is geodetics, and the drawing of lines of curvature by a stretched cord with its ends at umbilici; and geodetic lines through umbilici, and the region of a geodetic which cuts the ellipse of greater and least semi-diameter between two umbilici U, U'; and therefore always between the opposite pair, V, V'; and never between U&V, nor between U' and V'. I find that every dynamical problem of two freedoms is reducible to the drawing of geodetic lines on a sufficiently determined surface." In fine condition.

Auction Info

  • Auction Title: Fine Autograph and Artifacts, Ft. Science & Tech
  • Dates: #622 - Ended December 08, 2021





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