Dr. Hare on the Theories of Electrical Phenomena. 247 
cation transmitted to the surfaces of a coated pane, the two differ- 
ent portions of the electro-ether, there existing, are severally polar- 
in opposite ways, one being endowed with the properties 
usually called vitreous, or positive, the other with those usually 
called resinous, or negative. In fact, the two polarized atmos- 
pheres thus created, may be conveniently designated as the “ two 
electricities,” and alluded to in the language heretofore employed 
in treating of phenomena, agreeably to the hypothesis which as- 
Ssumes the existence of heterogeneous fluids instead of hetero- 
geneous polarities. 
42. Of course it will follow, that the oppositely polarized ethe- 
real atmospheres thus produced, one on each surface of the elec- 
tric which keeps them apart, must exercise towards each other an 
attraction perfectly analogous to that which has been supposed to 
be exercised by the imaginary heterogeneous electric fluids of 
Dufay. The electro-ether* being elastic, a condensation over 
each of the charged surfaces, proportionable to the attractive 
force, must ensue ; while over the surface of an electrified con- 
ductor, the similarly polarized atoms not being attracted by those 
iN an oppositely polarized atmosphere beneath the surface, tend, 
by their reciprocally repulsive reagency, to exist further apart than 
in a neutral state. Hence, the electro-ether, as it exists over the 
Surface of an insulated conductor, is rendered rarer, while, as ex- 
isting over the surfaces of charged panes or Leyden jars, it must 
e in a state of condensation.+ And, consequently, while the 
Space perceptibly electrified by the charge of a conductor, for 
equal areas and charging power, is much more extensive than the 
Space in which the charge of a coated pane is ferceptible, the 
Striking distance being likewise much greater; yet upon any body 
Successively subjected to a discharge from each, the effect will be 
potent when produced by means of the pane. 
Ignition, Electrolysis and Magnetism, Secondary Effects of 
frictional Discharges; or, in other words, of Polarizing 
‘lectro-cthereal Waves. 
seem 
area,t and less upon the extent of surface. The reciprocal re- 
pulsion of the similarly polarized ethereal particles must tend 
always to make them seek the surface, but at the same time their 
0 iste ree 
* As the word ether is used in various senses, the syllables “ electro’ being pre- 
fixed, serve to designate that which isintended. ae 
May leah communication on “ Free Electricity,’’ in this Journal, vol. iii, ii ser., 
t The sectional area of a conductor is the area of the superficies which would 
be exposed by cutting it through at right angles to its axis. 
Stconp Serigs, Vol. V, No. 15.—May, 1848. 45 
