Subjects great and small: Maxwell on Saturn's rings and kinetic theory.
Since 1890, James Clerk Maxwell's reputation has rested upon his theory of electromagnetism. However, during his lifetime he was recognized 'as the leading molecular scientist' of his generation. We will explore the foundation of his significance before 1890 using his work on the stability of Saturn's rings and the development of his kinetic theory of gases, and then briefly discuss the grounds for the change of his reputation.
Garber
Elizabeth
E
Department of History, State University of New York at Stony Brook, Stony Brook, NY 11733, USA. garber@gmlc-associate.com