Electromagnetic Forces; A Search for More Rational Fundamentals; a Proposed Revision of the Laws

Reasons are given why it is desirable to revise some of our older laws regarding electromagnetic forces and motions which are the basis of all electromotive devices, in order to conform better to more modern developments. Researches with high-current densities in such mobile conductors as liquids and arcs, have brought out some heretofore unnoticed forces, the existence of some of which had been denied. Some of our older laws are claimed to mislead, to be inaccurate, incomplete, to involve unnecessary complications such as the forced definitions of a sliding contact, are based on the wrong fundamentals, specify results contrary to the facts, and are not universal, thereby checking possible progress if accepted as universal. A new and simple general law is proposed, based on one of the fundamental universal laws of physics. It is shown how this might also be made the basis of a much desired universal law of induction. It leads to the existence of a force longitudinal to the conductor, which our older laws deny. Numerous experiments are described illustrating and bearing out the arguments. Suggestions are made showing how the laws and the present usual methods of mathematical treatment of such forces might be revised in order to make them more satisfactory, easier for the student to understand, and for the engineer to use. If the alleged improper restrictions imposed by former laws are removed, developments in new fields may become possible. In conclusion a tentative plan for revision is suggested.