IV. On the elasticity and viscosity of metals

Abstract

Among the experimental exercises performed by students in the physical laboratory of the University of Glasgow, observations on the elasticity of metals have been continued during many years. Numerous questions of great interest, requiring more thorough and accurate investigation, have been suggested by these observations; and recently they have brought to light some very unexpected properties of metallic wires. The results stated in the present communication are, however, with one or two exceptions, due to the careful experimenting of Mr. Donald Macfarlane, official assistant to the Professor of Natural Philosophy, whose interested and skilful cooperation have been most valuable in almost everything I have been able to attempt in the way of experimental investigation. The subject has naturally fallen into two divisions, Viscosity, and Moduli of Elasticity.