284 Miscellaneous Intelligence. 
The increase of the rotary velocity and centrifugal force in proportion 
to the distance from the axis, I have been accustomed ‘to consider as 
one of the causes which may serve to account for the non-appearance, 
and, as I think, the non-existence of those great ascending currents 
sive plane of rotation in proceeding from the equator, becomes propor- 
tionally greater than the perpendicular elevation from the surface, in a 
ratio which increases with the increase of latitude. 
us the immediate influence of the earth’s rotation wn be such as 
favors the production of currents in the higher regions of the 
o from puints between west and north in ever latitudes, 
and ae: between west and south in the southern hemtsphere. 
relative conditions at different altitudes: as may be inferred from the 
contrary effect that is shown in the diminished aiecnads of the earth 
which results from the increased density towards its center, as has been 
proved by Clairaut.* 
According to these views, the greater expansion of the lower atmo- 
sphere which results from the increased t temperature of the intertropical 
latitudes, may have little influence in determining the actual courses 0: 
ce 
these views, : estimating the dynamics of the atmosphere. It seems 
pen that there are other peer Sp which serve to counteract or 
sed sol ' 
ts of the 
ocean has been referred, in a great measure, to the centrifugal force 
which is the result of the earth’s rotation.t Now, if this view be so 
enlarged as to include all the physical influences and conditions (other 
than geographical variations of temperature) that must necessarily pe? 
tain to the diurnal rotation and orbital progression of the planet, I can- 
not see that the calorific theory of Halley is necessary for explaining 
the Lads ttre eg om which are observed in our atmosphere. | 
2. Smithsonian Institution.—The Regents of the Smithsonian Insti- 
tution held a session in Washington in the month of January, for the 
purpose of discussing plans for its mh “egteeot which should best pro- 
mote the designs of the testator, “ Jor the increase and diffusion 9% 
knowledge among men.” This clause in the will of Smithson, — 
indicates two entirely distinct objects, requiring two separate, t har- 
monious and confluent plans of conduct, for the full development rok the 
greatest good of which the Institution is capable. 
* Théorie dela Figure de la Terre ; Paris, 1 
t Library of Useful Knowledge, Art. Phigeisdd canny p- 28. 
