1883.] Theory of Magnetism based on New Researches. 201 



effects, except by strongly remagnetising it to saturation with a single 

 polarity, the superposed magnetism then becomes a single directive 

 force, and we can then by a few vibrations or torsions reduce the rod 

 to complete neutrality. 



The effects of superposed magnetism and its double polarity I have 

 produced in a variety of ways, such as by the electromagnetic influence 

 of coils, or in very soft iron simply by the directive influence of 

 earth's magnetism, reversing the rod and torsions when held in the 

 magnetic meridian, these rods when placed magnetic west showing 

 distinctly the double polar effects. 



It is remarkable also that we are enabled to superpose and obtain 

 the maximum effects on thin strips of iron from \ to J millim. in 

 thickness, whilst in thicker rods the effect is far less, as it is masked 

 by the comparatively neutral state of the interior, the exterior mole- 

 cules then reacting upon those of the interior, allowing them to com- 

 plete in the interior their circle of attractions. 



I have already mentioned several different forms of induction 

 balance which are applicable to — 1. Testing the softness of iron and 

 steel; 2. Researches upon the cause of tempering in steel; 3. Find- 

 ing the dividing line of iron and steel ; 4. Finding mechanical strains 

 in shafts, cannons, or steamboat screw shafts ; 5. Showing unmis- 

 takably the best quality of iron for electro-magnets ; 6. Researches 

 upon all the phenomena of magnetism, and upon all questions relative 

 to the molecular structure of metals. 



I was anxious to show upon the reading of this paper some me- 

 chanical movement produced by molecular rotation, consequently I 

 have arranged two bells that are struck alternately by a polarised 

 armature put in motion by the double polarised rod I have already 

 described, but whose position at 3 centims. distant from the axis of 

 the armature remains invariably the same. The magnetic armature 

 consists of a horizontal light steel 'bar suspended by its central axle, 

 carrying at its extremities two glass beads 5 millims. diameter serving 

 as hammers; the bells are thin wine glasses, giving a clear musical 

 tone loud enough by the force with which they are struck to be clearly 

 heard at some distance. The armature does not strike these alter- 

 nately by a pendulous movement, as we may easily strike only one 

 continuously, the friction and inertia of the armature causing its 

 movements to be perfectly dead beat when not driven by some 

 external force. 



The mechanical power obtained is extremely evident, and is sufficient 

 to put the sluggish armature in rapid motion, striking the bells six 

 times per second, and with a power sufficient to produce tones loud 

 enough to be clearly heard in all parts of the hall of the Society. As 

 this is the first direct transformation of molecular motion into me- 

 chanical movement I am happy to show it on this occasion. 



