Letter from Alfred Fowler and Howard Payn, in reply to a referee report by Hugh Frank Newall, on a paper 'The spectra of metallic arcs in an exhausted globe' by Alfred Fowler and Howard Payn

Description

Sectional Committee: [Physics and Chemistry]

The authors explain that they were quite aware that the experiments might be extended in more than one direction, but owing to the removal of the laboratory, they were unfortunately obliged to discontinue them for a considerable time. They thought however that the results already obtained would form a useful contribution to the study of enhancement lines which is now occupying the attention of several observers. It was intended to state any further results which might be obtained in a more general discussion of enhanced lines on which they have long been engaged in conjunction with Sir Norman Lockyer.

Comments on the six points stated in Newall's referee's report.
They will be glad to add the pressure on starting the experiment.
Regarding current strengths they have been able to repeat the experiment with magnesium poles so far as to determine that the current is somewhat greater in the exhausted globe than in air, and they beg to be permitted to add a dated note on this point to the paper.
The instrumental means at their disposal did not permit them to measure the wavelength of 4481 with such accuracy as to give it any great weight. They will omit the reference to Crew's work at this point.
They cannot agree that any new definition of enhanced lines is involved in their account of the lines; 4385, 4391, 4428, and 4434.
With reference to the HB [H Beta] line they will omit the work 'apparently' in the phrase 'apparently coincident'.
Regarding the flutings and enhanced lines in the arc, they have not as yet sufficiently localised the different phenomena. A modified form of apparatus seems necessary for this purpose.

[Published in Proceedings of the Royal Society, 1903].

Endorsed on verso as received 23 July 1903.

Reference number

RR/16/58

Earliest possible date

July 1903

Physical description

Letter on paper

Page extent

5 pages

Format

Manuscript