Toward Modernization of Weber's Force Law
| Scientific Paper | |
|---|---|
| Title | Toward Modernization of Weber\'s Force Law |
| Author(s) | Thomas E Phipps |
| Keywords | Wilhelm Weber, Force Law |
| Published | 1990 |
| Journal | Physics Essays |
| Volume | 3 |
| Number | 4 |
| Pages | 414-420 |
Abstract
Weber's electrodynamics based on a velocity-dependent potential with instantaneous action-at-a-distance reproduced the observational agreements of Amp?re's force law. Critics such as Heimholt pointed out that Weber's law implied nonphysical negative mass effects. A modernization of Weber's formulation is suggested that overcomes Helmholtz's objection. The consequences offer possibilities of experimental testing and revival of the action-at-a-distance mode of description. A method of clock synchronization based on proper time, which confirms the feasibility of such a development, is reviewed in an appendix. Another appendix examines the possibility of higher-order modifications of the force law.