14 NOMOS. 



is less instantaneous, and it is accompanied by little 

 or no noise. It approximates under these circum- 

 stances to the character of a voltaic spark. It is also 

 to be observed that there is no visible difference 

 between the two kinds of spark when they are taken 

 between amalgamated surfaces of metal, at intervals 

 only, and through the same distance of air. 



It appears, therefore, that ordinary electricity 

 agrees with voltaic electricity in the points which 

 we have taken as preliminary points of comparison, 

 the evolution of heat, the magnetism, the chemical 

 action, the shock, and the spark, and so far their 

 identity may be allowed. But this is not the only 

 evidence in favour of this identity; and thus, on 

 continuing the inquiry, we find that in both cases 

 there are similar attractions and repulsions (?) before 

 the circuit is complete, and that the actual circum- 

 stances of the discharge may be assimilated in a great 

 degree. 



The familiar attractions and repulsions (?) which 

 are displayed by the common electrometer are very 

 characteristic of common ordinary electricity. They 

 are very marked, even at considerable distances. 

 Now, there are similar attractions and repulsions (?) in 

 the case of voltaic electricity ; and the only difference 

 is, that they are less marked, and that they do not 

 happen at such great distances. They are, however, 

 very unmistakeable. Thus, the gold leaves of the 

 electrometer will diverge when the instrument is 

 placed in connexion with either end of a galvanic 

 battery, or even when brought within half an inch 

 of the end; and they will again collapse if, after 



