On the Formation of the Universe. 139 
tricity ; the general one arising from the difference in the 
rapidity of emission; the change of direction by percussion, 
and the change of velocity by the same cause. But the 
cause of the obliquity of their orbits is one, and therefore 
renders that obliquity a surer basis of calculation. If the 
point of percussion were not in the plane of the equator 
of the solar wheel, the two bodies would evidently be 
thrown out of that plane, and the relative obliquities of the 
two bodies in each pair, would at least approach an inverse 
proportion to their quantities of matter. With regard to the 
coincidence among their nodes and perihelia, it may be re- 
marked, that the greater asteroid of. the lower pair would, 
in all probability, commence its formation near the greater 
one of the higher pair ; and likewise the smaller one of the 
lower pair near the smaller one of the higher. This would 
obviously be true on the very probable supposition that not 
a very long space of time intervened between the formation 
of the upper and the lower pair. 
‘be extended to the other planets; for it is obvious, that on 
account of mutual attraction, each planet would commence 
its formation as near as possible to the one next above it. 
It may also be remarked, that the smaller asteroid of each 
pair would take the direct course towards the greater one, 
and of course immediately after percussion, it would have 
the most rapid motion, and eventnally the largest orbit. On 
this subject a close inspection of the demonstration respect- 
ing the rotary motion of the system, will be conclusive. In 
this respect theory agrees with the actual state of the aste- 
roids. The explosive theory proposed by Dr. Olbers, is 
indeed practicable: but if the asteroids had been separated 
from a solid planet, they would still float through the hea- 
vens, the obvious fragments of spheres; and i ; 
been separated from a pulverulent or plastic or fluid planet, 
they would have been driven into a multitude of parts, unless 
the planet had been thoroughly divided by regular and uni- 
form strata of the exploding substance, a most wonderful 
device in an omnipotent Creator to split a planet, and make 
its parts move irregularly. But it would seem as if the cir- 
cumstance alone respecting the atmosphere might put the 
subject atrest. . . ' : 
he ring of Saturn, while in its present situation with re- 
gard to the planet, could never have been in a state wholly 
