7 J
THE DAILY EV EKING' TELEGRAPH PHILADELPHIA, MONDAY, ! SEPTEMBER C, 1869.
SOLAR XI IS A T.
The Retardation cf the Earth's Motion
on Its Axis by Solar Influence
An Important Paper by
Captain John Ericsson.
At the mooting cf the National Academy of
Sciences held at Northampton, Massachu
setts, last week, an important paper ly Cap
tain John Ericsson, the celebrated inventor,
was read, the subject being '"Constancy of
Ilotation of the Earth Incompatible with
Solar Influence." The paper was accompa
nied by the following letter from the author:
New York, May 27, 1 WW. Dear Sir: I have
the honor to preent to you, for the National
Academy of Science, an extract from an "Kssuy
on Solar Heat," upon which I am now enframed.
Also, two partially finished plates necessary to
elucidate the subject. It is proper to observe
that I have made numerous experiments to
uncertain practically if solar heat can be ren
dered available as a motive power, and that I
have constructed several solar engines, some of
which have attained a very high rate of speed,
fully establishing the practicability of the
scheme. Tlieso experiments have led to a care
ful consideration ol the dynamic energy of the
sun's radiaut heat, together with investigations
relating to some important practical results of
solar heat.
I may mention, also, that in order to facilitate
the investigation I have constructed a solar
calorimeter and a solar thermometer, by means
f which it has been possible to determine with
absolute precision what Sir John Ilcrschel and
M. Pouilet ascertained approximately some
thirty years ago. Indeed, such a degree of pre
cision has been attained that tho temperature
and dynamic energy established by my Instru
ments indicate with considerable accuracy the
eccentricity of the earth's erbit. Thus during
the present warm weather the real temperature
produced by exposure to the sun's rays ata given
y.cnith distance, as well as the dynamic energy
developed, in units Of heat, is far less than
during the last winter solstice, when tho tem
perature was scarcely 15 dcg. above Fahrenheit's
zero.
The intended essay, which I expect will bo
published in about three years, will contain de
tailed engravings of the several installments em
ployed in the investigation, together with copi
ous tables relating to the observations made.
The most important fact intended to be estab
lished will bo the dynamic energy of the sun's
idiaut heat before it enters our atmosphere, as
well as the actual temperature of the sun's rays
before inllucnced by the atmosphere and its
vapor, or by terrestrial objects. 1 need hardly
observe that reliable tables of the dynamic ener
gies and temperature of the sun's rays, for each
degree of zenith distance from tl o'clock In the
morning to 0 o'clock in the evening, will furnish
precise data for determining the diminution of
energy and temperature during the passage of
the rays through the atmosphere, irrespective of
the nature of the cause of that diminution.
Already the investigations have advanced far
enough to justify the assertion that the tempera
ture of the moon under tho full effect of the
eun's vertical rays will be determined with posi
tive accuracy. It will also be satisfactorily
shown that the inferior planets are not subjected
to such a destructive heat as supposed, and that
the temperature of the sun and the amount of
heat constantly parted with have been greatly
overstated.
In a future communication I will present par
ticulars which cannot fail to interest you. I can
not, however, omit to state belore concluding,
that the observations made last winter positively
disprove the accuracy of Sir John Ilerschel's
estimate that, owing to the eccentricity of the
earth's orbit, the temperature in the Southern
hemisphere during our winter solstice io U:5 de
grees higher than during our summer, on the as
sumption that the absolute zero is 2:.) degrees
below Fahrenzeit's zero.
I am, dear sir, yours truly,
(Signed) " J. Ericsson.
Professor John Henry, President of the Na
tional Academy of Science, Washington.
P. S It will afford me much pleasure to for
ward to you shortly a copvof the annual records
VI 11U3 llllVCIBll Ol J.UI1U, 1U 1UI UlU
present year, containing some of my specula
tions with reference to the Physical constitution
of the moon's surface. My investigations by
means of the solar calorimeter aud solar ther
mometer, prove conclusively that the tempera
ture of the moon's surface under the full ellect
of a vertical sun, owing to the absence of an at
mosphere, is not sullicicnt to render mercury
fluid much less will snow melt under such a low
temperature. The irresistible inference I draw
from this fact is that our satellite, in place of
being a "dried-up, sun-scorched body," is cov
ered with ice and snow, the peculiar retlectiou
observed resulting from enormous masses of ice
upheaved and broken, during the cooling; aud
consequent contraction of the body, while the
peculiar formation of the general" surface, the
innumerable circular cavities so unlike anything
which the internal heat of the earth has pro
duced, is the result of hot water forced out bv
contraction, scooping out the ice, and forming
those vast surrounding banks of snow aud con
cealed water which excite our wonder; ulti
mately, during the last etlort ot Internal heat,
raising those conical projections of ice which, in
po many cases, stand isolated iu the middle of
the Hat bottoms, the frozen oceans and lakes.
J. E.
Captain Ericsson's paper reads as follows:
CONSTANCY OF NOTATION OF THE KA11TII IM OM
l'ATIHI.E WITH KOI.AK IN KI.I ENC E.
Investigations relating to solar heat, under
taken cUielly with a view of ascertaining accu
rately how tar the dynamic energy of the radiant
heat of the suu can be made subservient in
producing motive power for the various unes of
civilized life, have led me to consider, amomr
other important practical manifestations ot
olar energy the abia-ion of the earth's sur
face, caused by the How of raiu water iu its
coun-c. to the sea.
The expouditurc of force during the transit of
tho abraded matter from the laud to the sea
culled for on account of friction and other resist
ance not haviug a direct bearing on the question
intended to bo discussed, I will at oneu cuter
upon tho main subject, tho consideratiou of tho
etlect produced ou tho rotation of the earth bv
the change of position of tho enormous masses of
matter detached by the flow of rain water. It Is
evident that the eltecis resulting from tho
change of position of tho matter abraded are
twofold as regards the earth s axial rotation. Iu
tho first place, this matter is brought nearer to
the earth's centre, excepting in a tow instances
owing to the elliptical form; but generally tho
uttered position Involves an approach to tho
eanh's centre. It needs no demonstration to
show that such approach tends to increase the
rotary velocity ot the earth, slued the weight
transferred moves In a less circle at the base
timn at the ton of the height from which it de
f.iwls. consenuentlv caMusr for the extinction
r.f a pt't Uihi amount of its vis viva. The increase
,f roinrv velocity imparted to the earth from
ti.u .;iiise is. however, almost Inappreciable
Secondly, the abraded matter, besides its change
.f imlifon relative to the earth 8 centre, will
its mime toward the sea, either approach the
.m.trr i.r recede from It. hi the former case
the chainre will cause a retardation, while in the
!.. it will mifrnieut the earth s rotary motion
round the axis. Tho vastaess of the amount of
nniitinnallv operating, the nrst-men
tioncd tending to abstract and the last-mentioned
. I ; rJnn. will be readily conceived, ou
reflection that there are only four important
two in eacn ueuuniJuci c, uuu
,.!i HiHiiiiico from the centre of the
. m ilia um U n creat that
?m?teiaUMth laud by tho now of
the matter dcDM irom iuo iutud.
rain waver 1 V ;tm,.v,l from or
in some th aXi9 of the globe many
brought nearer to the i axu i o J
!?I"l.? ,mfrrCndaTTSty. MUOUutiDir In
some cases to 200 feet per second, consequently
takes place during the transfer of the abraded
matter from the river basins. Hearing in mind
that a speed of 2tM feet per second corresponds
with a fall through a space of 035 feet, we can
form an idea of tho enormous force of which
the earth has been deprived during the forma
tion of deltas produced by rivers flowing towards
the equator.
Tho matter composing the Immense deltas of
the (ianges and tho Mississippi, in order to ac
quire an augmentation of circumferential velo
city corresponding with that of the outlets of
those rivers, has demanded an expenditure of
force so vast a force which tho earth has sup
plied that astronomers might look In that di
rection for an explanation of some of the re
tardation which tho lunar tables reveal. Un
questionably tho Mississippi, Ganges, and Indus
alone transfer a sullicicnt quantity of matter In
the direction of the equator, and thereby con
tinually extinguish so great an amount of the
earth's vis viva that, unless it can bo proved
that the loss thus sustained is counterbalanced
by tho operation of the general river sj-stem of
the globo, a retarding forco must bo admitted to
exist sullicicnt to diminish sensibly tho rotary
velocity of our planet iu the course of ages.
THE MISSISSIPPI ItASIN.
The question whether such a proof can bo
furnished, or the fact established that retarda
tion actually takes place, is not by any moans so
absurd as might at first appear. It Is true, we do
not know what quantity of water or sediment is
carried to the ocean by the several rivers; but
wo can compute with sullicicnt precision tho
extent of tho river basins. Accordingly, if wo
could establish a mean of discharge of some very
extensive basin, comprising all the variales of
climate and soil, the question could be satisfac
torily answered. Fortunately there is ono river,
and that the longest on the globe, draining the
greatest extent of surface, with but one import
ant exception, which has been accurately, thor
oughly examined, viz., the Mississippi. Not
only has this great river been thus examined,
but it comprises every variety of soil and cli
mate, its source being among snows and lakes
frozen during a great portion of the year,
while its outlet is near tho tropics. How com
pletely the Mississippi basin represents the
average of the river systems of both hemi
spheres will bo understood from this fact, that
although the rain gauges at its northern ex
tremity show only thirteen inches for twelve
months, those of the southern extremity reach
sixty-six Inches, with every possible gradation
of rain-fall In the intermediate space. In addi
tion to this important circumstance, the basin
covers 21 deg. of latitude and 85 deg. of longi
tude, or 14t0 miles by 1T10 miles: hence com
prising an area greater than the entire European
continent west of the rivers Vistula and Pruth.
It may be confidently assumed, therefore, that
the Mississippi basin represents the average dis
charge of water and sediment so nearly that cal
culations based thereon, applied to the river
systems of both hemispheres, excepting sorao
of the Northern Asiatic aud American rivers,
will exhibit a general result differing but
slightly from what would lie established if all
the rivers had been examined.
I propose to present, in another place, a synop
sis of some points which bear directly on the
subject under consideratiou, contained in the
elaborate oflicial reports on the Mississippi river
made by Humphreys and Abbott, 1801, which
report rellects so much credit on those otllccrs
and the corps of topographical engineers of tho
United States. Sfome calculations will, however,
be submitted, in this place, based oil certain
lacts established by the reports alluded to, iu
order to give in advance a distinct notion of the
amount of disturbing force which attends tho
abrasion caused by the action of raiu water in
its course to the ocean, over the Mississippi basin.
It may be summarily stated that tho calcula
tions presented iu the reports of General Hum
phreys aud his able coadjutor, fouudedou obser
vations continued during a series of years, show
that the average quantity of earthy matter car
ried into the Gulf of Mexico, partly suspended
in the water aud partly pushed along the bottom
of the river by the current, amounts for each
twelve months to 003,100,000,000 of pounds.
This enormous weight of matter is contributed
by numerous largo branches aud upwards of one
thousand small tributaries. The mean distance
along the streams in which the sediment is car
ried iu its course towards the sea exceeds 1500
miles; but the true mean which determines tho
amount of force acting to check the earth's rota
tion is far less.
The annexed maps of the Mississippi river
basin have enabled the writer to determine that
its centre is situated 70 deg. 10 miu. west of the
mouth of the main river, and 10 deg. 15 min.
north of the same, in latitude 40 deg. 15 min.
The reader will lind, on inspecting the section
of the earth represented on plate hi, that agree
able to the above determination the centre of
the Mississippi basin rotates iu a circle of
15, S-l.'ISi feet radius, and that its velocity round
the axis of the globe is 1147-1HJ feet per second.
The mouth of the river, on the other hand,
rotates in a circle, of 18,3U,1(RJ feet radius, with
a circumferential Telocity of 13:i0-8i( feet per
second. It will be seen, on comparing these
velocities, that an Increased circumferential
velocity of nearly 170 feet per second must bo
imparted to the sedimentary matter duriug its
course from the centre of the basin to tho mouth
of the river
THE rKAO ON THE EAHTIl's liOTATIOX.
The question here presents itself, where is the
motive energy to come from to impart the in
creased velocity acquired during the transit?
We are compelled to answer by an admission
that the earth must supply the needed force. In
other words, an amount "uf the earth's vis viva
corresponding with the force required to gene-
rate uie augintmieu speed, will be extinguished.
There is, f course, no uncertainty about this
proposition. Given the quantity o"f sediment
discharged at the mouth of tho river during a
fixed period, or given the extent aud depth of
tho delta of the Mississippi, and the specific
gravity of its sediineutary matter, we can state
Willi pcricct accuracy the amount of retardation
to l.e overcome by the earth every second, or the
total amount of vis cica lost durinir tho forma
tion of the delta.
It has beeu already stated that the mean an
nual discharge of earthy matter ut tho mouth of
the Mississippi is '.(Oi.joo millions of pounds.
The centre of the basin, indicated on tho dia
gram representing the earth, before alluded to,
being y,4ti.d:jo luet nearer the axis thau the
mouth of tho river, we can readily calculate that
the increase ot rotary velocity will lie, as already
piuieu. i leei per seconu; a rate acquired bv a
mu iiirougu ,-kio o ieei. l ue eleiments are thus
lurnisned tor determining with precision the
amount oi rtsrtva wuicu tlio earth must part
with iu consequence of the chaniro of position of
matter attending the abrasion during tho tlow
ot the rain water lrom the basin to the niouth of
uio river, .multiplying iiua.iuu millions bv ftiiii-it.
se prove positively that the" amount of jmr.rV
to be given up by the earth in order to Impart
tho slated inceaso of rotary velocity to the
anraued matter, exceeds tour hundred and fifty-
1 rtl t. mia n , ....it .........l .. .. . . . 11 .
w uuuua ui i",ii,-mjuuub uuiiuauy. uut LIlO
fj-,i-i,i.ir't,,n -.f 'irWlllA ............ ...II.... ,.
. imie oi uoiia, over
which tho Mississippi now runs, has required
ages, during which tho earth has beeu unceas
ingly deprived of vis viva. Conmntnti,,,.
Bi-uircijr iicuuuu io snow mat unless bouic ado
..:;...... i : i. .j ... ., .. . ... .
i uuui couuieracunr lorce lias ueen in mmmi I...,
a perceptible diminution of tho earth's axial
YtuitiiY hub iukuu piace.
mere is auotner point connected with the
subject of retarding iulluenco resulting from
M' l- . .. .
coiar ueav, wnien cannot no passed over, but
which I approach with much dillldoneo the
question whether It can be shown that a sulli
cicnt compensatory force Is acting to make good
iuo liiuiiciino auiuuut oi uyuuuiic enerirv ex
l I...... il j .
iciiucu iu mipmuu tun lucretiftuu rouiry Vol
city to the water wucti forma tlie vehicle of the
sediineutary matter iu riyers running towards
the equator.
The mean rate of discharge of tho Mississippi
Into the tiull i Mexico somewhat exceeds
38,000,000 jiounds per Beeona. we nave already
seen that the position of the centre of the basin
is so far north of the outlet of the river as to
place the latter 2,401,320 feet further from tha
axis of tho earth than the former, and that this
d,feM)noe uces u increase of circumfonn-
I tial velocity so considerable ttuiU fell Uugoith
500-ft feet Is necessary to generate tho same. The
amount of ris vica of which tho earth is 'jnS
deprived every secomt by the waters of tho Mis
sissippi and its tributaries during their Mow to
tho sea will accordingly be 10.323,000,000 of foot
pounds. As tho mind catinot properly compre
hend the magnitude of this force, let us reduce
it to a standard with which we have become
familiarized. A horse-power Is 33,000 pounds
raised ono foot high in a minute, or 550 pounds
raised one foot high per second. Dividing tho
before-stated total cnergv by this standard of
550, the important fact will be established that
to make good tho loss of ei viva which tho
earth suffers demands a constant expenditure of
85,133,000 horso-power. ,
What provision do we discover for making
good this stupendous drag on the earth s rota
tion ? The waters precipitated on the Mississippi
basin come chiefly from the Gulf of Mexico,
raised from its surface by tho radiant heat of
the sun. Tho gulf being situated saulh of tho
outlet of the river, the aqueous particles possess,
at the commencement of the ascent, a greater
circumferential velocity than the basin, and
hence tend to impart motion to tho atmosphere
during their northerly course. On purely dy
namic considerations, that motion and the mo
tion of the aqueous particles ought to restore to
the earth the lossof vis viva sustained, provided
solar Influence be not present. But solar Inllu
cuco is present; tho atmospheric currents do not
move altogether in accordance with static laws,
but are controlled and perturbed by the heat of
the sun, an outside forco competent to disturb
and destroy terrestrial equilibrium. Hence, we
lind that in place of an easterly motion of tho
atmosphere tending to restore, by its friction
against the surface of tho basin, the
loss under consideration, the sun Is fre
quently expending a vast amount of me
chanical energy productive of currents
which, by friction in a contrary direction,
augments the loss. It would be futilo to at
tempt a demonstration to prove that, osving to
solar Intlucnce, the friction and other resistance
called forth by currents of air and vapor, is in
adequate to restore tho loss of vis viva sus
tained by the earth In consequence of the in
crease of rotary velocity which it must Impart
to tho waters of rivers running towards the
equator. Nor would it be less futile to attempt
a demonstration showing that tho friction and
resistance produced by such currents passing
over the Mississippi basin from west to cast. Is
sullicicnt to restore the expended force of
35,000.000 horse power exerted in an opposite
direction. Those who imagine that Laplace's
theory of compensation relative to atmospheric
currents is applicable in this case, and who con
sequently will contend that tho great disturb
ance which our figures have incontestably esta
blished corrects itself by tho means discussed,
will do well to reflect on the precarious nature.
the obvious uncertainty of tho forces relied upon
to restore the lost vts vtva.
RIVERS FLOWING TO 1'OI.AK SEAS.
Some allusion to the rivers which carry sod!
mentary matter toward the poles is called lor
belore dismissing the subject. Let us consider
tho Kiver Lena, for instance, which, takes its
rise in the Yablonol Mountains, in the eastern
hemisphere, latitude 53 (leg., and empties its
waters In the Arctic Oceans, latitude 73 deg
sec. Calculation shows that the ellect of such a
great difference of latitude will bo that a pound
ot matter trausierrcd trom the source to tho out
let of this river, demands an expenditure of
dynamic energy represented by 6w toot-pounds
in order to extinguish the greater ois vtoa pos
sesscd at the commencement than that retained
at tho termination of the descent. Tho centre
of the basin, situated as shown b3' the tables iu
latitude IM) deg. 55 min., rotates with a velocity
of 304 feet per second faster than tho outlet
of tho river, a rate acquired by a fall
through 1444 feet. The basiu of the Lena
covers 814,800 square miles. Assuming that the
annual precipitation reaches only thirteen inches
and that tho discharge at tho mouth ot the river
is only 0-25, like Northern Mississippi, the force
extinguished aud consequently exerted in tho
.ii n ...! ...in .
uireriioii oi iuo eanu s ruuiuou win amount to
17,580,000,000 of foot-pounds per second very
nearly balancing the retardation caused by the
waters of the Mississippi. But the waters of the
Lena, unlike tho great Southern river, do not
directly enter a heated caldron, to be at nee
ouvcrtcd into vapor. The previously chilled
masses of the Lena How into tho great polar
refrigerator, and from thence are trans-
furred to the evaporators in the equatorial
regions. 11ns trausfcr, evidently, cannot
be effected without a considerable retreat
from tho earth's axis, so considerable.
indeed, that beforo the required evapora
tion takes place, the waters are lurther lrom
that axis than their source at the foot of tho
Yablonol Mountains. Calculations are super
fluous. The simple fact that tho weight which
imparted the motive forco during the course
toward the poles has, during the transfer to the
evaporator, been removed to a greater distance
lrom the axis ot rotation, shows mat tne im
parted vis viva ot 17,5Stf,00O,ooo ot loot-poiinus
er second has become more man neutrauzen.
Thus, we find that tho waters of rivers flowing
into the polar seas, although imparting a vast
amount of mechanical energy in the right direc
tion, cannot possibly restore any of the loss of
the earth's vis viva occasioned by the waters of
the Mississippi and other rivers discharging Into
the seas of the equatorial regions.
1 now dismiss this subject, me consideration
of which I have entered upon with so much
diflidence, leaving it with those who deem
Laplace's theory applicable to prove that tho
amount of vis viva which Is Imparted to tho
earth by the vapors condensed on tho Mississippi
basin, and not again evaporated on the same, is
adequate to counteract the continually retarding
lorce ot 35,000,000 oi horse power.
A11HASION HY THE FLOW OF RAINWATER.
lleturning to tho subject of abrasion aud tho
retarding lorce Indisputably exerted by sedi
mentary matter carried toward iuo equator, wo
have now to consider mat uraucu oi mu buujucl
which relates to the recovery of vis viva result-
insr from tuo lowering ot the earm s suriaco oy
tho abrasion caused by tho How ot rain water.
General Humphrey's olliclai report oi tne .Mis
sissippi river shows that tho annual discharge
of sediment and earth (of a speelllc gravity of
1-03 or 120-8 pounds to tne cuuic loot; amounts
to 7,474 millions OI cuuiu leui. mo Jiuu mei
district Of H7,000 square nines, uraiueu uv uiu
Bayous Atchafalaya, Plaquemine and La
Foiireho Is not Included In this amount, and
hence tlio stated discharge is contributed by
1,147 000 square miles of basin. Kach square
mile 'accordingly yields up only Willi cubic feat
of earthy matter, and as this quantity would
cover only 78,103 square feet of B.,r fe to he
dentil ol one men, n ' "-"
'III Ul KIllK, ,., " - 'in' l t f
sur
face of the river uasiu oiiiy r;v
an inch In depth per
inch In depth per annum, inis iacuesuinnBnuu
ruination OI a river uaaiu n uii u
covers a considerable portion of the earth s sur
face, is oue of profound interest. It enables us
to determine with certainty that it wi require.
350 years to lower tie Burlaco of the Mississippi
basin ono inch, and that tho mighty "fatucr of
waters" must toil for 4272 years to lower tho eu
tire surface a single foot. , em , .
The centre of this basiu being only 500 feet
above the level of the sea, tho force tending to
restore vis viva through the approach ot t ie
abraded matter towards earths centre w 11 be
Insignificant. Tho problem may be presented lu
n. vcrv utini1i) form IiV siiUluL' that tho diminu
tion of circumferential velocity produced by an
approach of 500 feet frcin tho surface ol the
MlRuluiJiirii linuln
towards W's ceuuu
pititi, n.w.itr,.j t. A'O'J'77 flint, ner second, a rate
H IIIUWIIUID I J V VWI I ' , - ,
attained by a fall through 0 0000120a foot. Mul
tiplying tho weight of sediment discharged per
annum. 1103,100,000,000 pounds, by O-WHXH-Oa,
we lind that the energy to be extinguished, in
other words, the force Imparted in the direction
of tho earth's rotation, merely amounts to
10,881,451 foot-pounds per annum. This small
aud wholly inappreciable compensatory forco is
further reduced by the counteracting influence
attending tho elevation of the level of the ocean
1-40,055 of an inch annually consequent on the
entering sedimentary matter, the formation of
the delta.
Leaving out of bight this trivial elevation of
the ocean level, and dividing the 10,881.451 foot
pounds via vioa restored by 452 trillion foot
pounds lost, It will be found that the approach
of the abraded matter toward the centre of the
earth scarcely recovers 1-41,000,000 part of the
energy parted with during the change of position
in the direction ot tne equator.
, EFFECT OF TUB WORKS OF MAN.
Another cause ot retardation of tho earth's
rotation connected with solar influence remains
to bo considered, viz., that resulting from the
exercise of human Intelligence and human
muscle, alike depending on solar intlucnce.
The work of man has assumed such propor
tions already that it must for the future enter
Into all accurate calculations concerning iuo re
tardation of the axial velocity of tho earth..
We may not bo able to express by figures to
what extent the ancient Egyptians by tho exer
cise of their muscles increased tho length of a
day, yet close reasoning compels us to admit
that tho removal of thousands of millions of
pounds to an increased distance from the axis of
rotation during the erection oi tneir pyrauuus,
In some localities, caused a retardation, which,
after tho lapse of ages, will be marked by a later
rising of the sun than If those pyramid had
not been erected. At tho present tune, however,
man, directed by superior Intelligence, and call
ing to his aid various forces emanating from
solar heat, is busy transferring matter from its
original position on so large a scale that per
ceptible disturbancewill bo produced. A modern
first-class city, it may be observed, weighs more
than ten such structures as tho "(treat
Pyramid," tho building materials being
almost Invariably obtained from below tho
surface of the ground, and hence removed
to a greater distance from the axis of ro
tation. In addition to tho enormous masses of
stone, and earth Id tho form of bricks, which
aro thus removed, wo have to count tho weight
of iron and mineral coal raised from below tho
surface of the earth, amounting to billions of
pounds annually. Let us bear iu mind that any
computation of the weight of human habitations
and other structures which In course of time
will be piled up above the surface of the earth,
based ou the presont rate of increase, and upon
the present habits and necessities of our race,
would fall far short of tho weight which will ac
tually change position during the next aud com
ing centuries by the hand of man. Unquestion
ably, beforo the earth shall have received Us full
complement of inhabitants, and man's intelli
gence shall have reached tho climax, changes so
extensive will have been made iu tho disposition
ot matter near tho crust, that ordinary lustru
ments for measuring will prove precise enough
to give to the eye a conception ot the extent to
which the earth's centre of gyration has been
disturbed by human interference.
Inspecting tho annexed tables, the following
explanation will probably be deemed sullicicnt:
The extent of the several river basins 130 in
all have been ascertained trom tho best maps
extant. By reference to Plato XVI, showing
the eastern part ef the Mississippi basin, It will
be readily understood in what manner their
boundaries have been laid out. A line is drawn
on the map dividing tho territory equally be
twecn the source of each river and tributaries
and those of adjoining basins. Tho boundaries
being thus defined, the areas have beeu calcu
lated iu English statute miles, the latitude and
longitude ot the centre ot each basm bein
determined at the same time.
hy considering tho earth as a perfect sphere,
7,!21-41 miles in diameter, according to Sir
John Ilerschel's determination, the calculations
have been rendered extremely simple. This will
ue seen Dy reierenee to tne sections ot the earth.
plate XVI, which contains all tho elements for
computing the rotary velocity of tho centre of
i no river uusms, and oi the mouths ot the rivers
lhese velocities aro entered in the tables for
each river basin, also the diminution of vis viva
caused by the transfer of thosedimentary matter
from the centre of the basin to the mouth of tho
river. It should bo observed that owing to their
trilling influence on the earth s rotation, and in
order to save spaco, all the English and Scotch
rivers' basins, whose sediment is transferred In
the direction of the equator, have been
entered together in tho tables. Tho rivers of
Ireland have also been entered together. It
should, however, be understood that in comput
ing the loss or gain of vis viva, each river basin
has been calculated by itself; the amount entered
being the result of the whole quantity of sedi
ment transferred towards the equator. The area
of basin entered In the table is accordingly the
total. Tho river basins of Sweden and Norway,
being very numerous and unimportant, have also
in some districts been entered together In tho
tables, like those of Great Britain. Finally, the
narrow coast districts, in botli hemispheres, have
been computed aud entered iu the table iu a
similar manner.
INDIAN RIVERS.
The quantity of sedimentary matter dis
charged by the Indus, Ganges, and Brahmapoo
tra, being known with tolerable accuracy from
actual observation, has not been computed ac
cording to standard furnished by the Mississippi,
which Is ouo pound of sediment per second for
every 40-08 square miles of basiu. Besides, local
circumstances, such as tho heated waters and
profuse evaporation of tho Bay of Bengal, aud
the close vicinity of the Himalaya Mountains,
render tho Gauges quite exceptional.
The discharge of earthy matter of the Ganges,
entered in the tables, is, however, not so great
us Sir Charles Lyell estimates in his "Principles
of Geology." A brief explanatiun will show
that those estimates aro somewhat exaggerated.
The quantity of matter carried down the (ianges
at Ghazepoor being known, viz., 0,308,077,440
cubic feet annually, according to the observa
tions and computations of Kev. Mr. Everest, we
have only to ascertain with- precision what area
is drained by the river aud its branches above
Ghazepoor, in order to prove that Sir Charles
Lyell has overestimated the source of tho forma
tion of tho delta of the Ganges.
The maps of India being reliable, I have found
it quite easy to dellno tho extent of tho basin
drained by the part of the river under conside
ration, as well as that drained by tho lower part
and its branches; likewise tho area drained by
the Brahmapootra and Its tributaries.
The basiu of the Ganges, above Ghazepoor
contains, agreeable to accurate determination
187,100 square miles. The basin below Ghaze
poor contains 237,200 square miles, and that of
the Brahmapootra 370,000 square miles. Tho
quautity of matter which passes Ghazepoor
being, as indicated by the total amount already
stated, at the mean ratu of 201 70 cubic feet per
second, we might show by analogy that tho
mean discharge of tho lower part of tho
(ianges should bo 255-78 cubic foot per second;
but Sir Charles Lyell states that, tho abrasion
of the river aud its tributaries below
Ghazepoor Is greater than above. This may be
so as regards the Gogra, Gunduk, Khosee, and
Tcesta, which descend from the mountains; but
.l.n ctitlioi'ii trlliiitiirina a.tl aonn..l..ll. 1,a
HI" puuHii.." v. . V..J, M.UU cnCUllfclljr bUU
. lower part ot uie main stream, which runs
a continually deer
.Teasing speed.
cannot possibly cause an abrasion greater than
tho Ganges above Ghazepoor and Its many
tributaries descending from the Himalaya. If,
therefore, we admit that tho basin below Ghaze
poor contributes proportionably 50 per cent,
more earthy matter than above that place, our
estimate will certainly be In excess of tho real
fact. The Ganges below Ghazepoor, the basin
of which, as stated, is 237,200 square miles, will
consequently discharge 382 (57 cubic feet per
second. The Brahmanotra, assumed by Sir
Charles Lyell to carry down proportionably the
same amount oi maiwr as uie iaugos aoove
Ghazepoor, having a basin of 370,000 square
innegi wui contribute 408-71 cubic feet per second.
i Adding the contribution of Upper Ganges beforo
gneellied, tne wwi nuuiimy oi earmy matter
discharged into the Bay of Bengal will bo VH'U
cubic foot mean rate per second, or 31,373,248,851
cubic feet per annum. The estimated quantity
of 40,000,000,000 cubic feet per annum named In
the Principles of Geology will thus be found in
consistent with the data on which it apparently
is founded. The annexed tables, it need hardly
be stated, contain the quantities determined by
the foregoing estimates, based on a specific
gravity oll-M for the sedimentary matter in a
dry state and upon the areas of the basins
specified.
AFRICAN AND OTHER BITBBS.
Respecting the African rivers, none of which
bave been eutsred In the tables, it will suffice to
state that they have no material influence on the
earth's rotation, from the fact Umt the two prin
cipal rivers, the Nile and tho Niger, flow in ! op
posite directions the former towards the pole
and me latter towards me equator. There is,
however, considerable dlfferonco of lattitudo In
fnvor ol tlio JNIlc; nut this cannot be Tar from
balanced by the greater quantity of sedimentary
matter brought down by tho Niger, as proved by
its delta ol miles oi coast, the goneral
course of tho other important rivers of Africa,
the Senegal. Zambesi, and Orange rivers, is so
nearly parallel with the equator that they exer
cise no appreciable influence on tho axial rota
tion of the earth.
Australia being drained by rivers tho course of
which are directed to all points of the compass,
and, consequently, of no account as regards tho
earth's motion, has likewise been excluded from
the tables. It may bo observed that the basin of
the important river Goolwa and its tributaries,
excepting the Callcwatta. Is almost on tho same
parallel with tho mouth ofjthe main river. Hence
scarcely any disturbing forco Is produced, not
withstanding the great extent of tlis basin
drained by the Goolwa. Tho Amazon, which
drains more than two millions of square miles,
strikingly illustrates the feeble influence of
rivers the centres of whose basins are nearly on
tho eamo parallel as their outlets, more particu
larly when, like tho Amazon, they arc situated
near the equator. It will be seen by reference to
the tables that tho enormous masses of solid
matter carried to the ocean by tho greatest river
on the globe deprives It ot only 70,000 lo t
pounds per second.
(ONCLtSlONS.
It need hardly be shitcd that owing to the ex
isting uncertainty regarding the amount of pre
cipitation in tho higher latitudes, not to mention
our total want of Information as to tho propor
tion of sedimentary matter conveyed, especially
with reference to the great Asiatic and North
American rivers, no perfect table cen be pre
pared at present, or nny reliable calculations
made to determine tlio amount of ris viva re
stored to the earth by the rivers flowing to the
poles. But this uncertainty about the precipi
tation in the polar regions, and tho quantity of
solid matter discharged into the Arctic Seas.
does not in the least invalidate our estimate of
the mainiitude of the retarding intlucnce on the
earth's axial rotation, caused by the numerous
rivers flowing towards the equator. Indeed, the
standard furnished by the abrasion occasioned
by the waters of the Mississippi, viz.. one
pound of solid matter per second transferred to
tho mouth of the river for every 40 08 square
miles of river basin drained, will bo found
rather below than In excess of tho general
average of other rivers running in tho direction
of the equatorial regions. Hence no reasonable
doubt can been tertaiued that the earth as shown,
iiyme tables, sustains a loss ot vis viva ot 30.8114.
058 foot pounds every second. Multiplying this
sum ov &u,4UU seconds, wo icaru that every sue
ceeding day marks a diminution of the earth's
v is viva oi 3,440,808,401,00 loot pounds, in con
sequence of tho change in position of the
abraded matter carried towards the equator.
Future Investigations must determine to what
extent this loss is reduced bv the counteracting
intlucnce of the abraded matter which is carried
In the direction of the poles.
In the meantime, the magnitude of the retard
ing force which we have indisputably established
by onr calculations and tables, compels us to
admit that constancy of rotation of the earth is
incompatible with solar intlucnce.
ICE CREAM AND WATER ICE.
JHE NEAPOLITAN
ICE CREAM AND WATER ICES.
THE FCItEST AND BEST IN THE WORLD.
This celebrated Brick Ice Crenm and Water Ice can he
carried in a paper t any part ot the city, an you would
candy. Filteen or twenty different kinds of thom are kept
constantly on band, and ONK HUNOKKU DIWKKKNT
FLAVORS can be made to order for those who dosire to
huve somotbing never belore seen in the United fciUUes,
and superior to any Ice ('ream made in Kurope.
Principal Depot No. 1324 WALNUT Ntreet.
liruncb Store No. 1U20 SI'KINU UAHDKN Street.
il r.J.A LLKUKKTTI.
DRUGS, PAINTS, ETC.
JOBERT SHOEMAKER & CO.
N. Comer FOURTH and EACE Sts.
PHILADELPHIA.
WHOLESALE DRUGGISTS'
Importers and Manufacturers of
White Lead and Colored Faints, Putty'
Varnishes, Etc.
AGENTS FOR THE CELEBRATED
FRENCH ZINC PAINTS,
Dealers and consumers supplied at lowest prlcei
for casti. 13 45
LEGAL NOTICES.
TN THE ORPHANS' COURT FOR THE
J. CITY AND COUNTY OF PHILADELPHIA.
Kstateof ABBOTT H. FULLKK, deceased.
The Auditor appointed by the Court to audit, settle, and
adjust the tirHt and tinal account of MAKIK 8. FUL
I.F.R, administratrix of the F.state of ABBOTT H. FUL
LKK, deceased, and to report distribution of tho balance
in the hands of the aooountant, will meet the parties in.
torosted, for the purpose of his appointment, on MON
DAY, September 111, lHrii), at 3 o'clock P. M., at his
office, No. 433 WALNUT Street, in the city of Philadel
phia. THOMAS J. WORRKLL,
tt 1 wlm 6t Auditor.
INSTATE OF JOHN W. GR1GG. LETTERS
J testamentary having been (rranted by the Register of
the city and counly ot Philadelphia upon the will of
JOHN W, URKiCi, deceased, all persons having claims
on the deceased are requested to notify the Kxeoutora,
and all persons indebted are requested to make puyinuut
o CF.OIUiK W. BIDDLK,
No. K. FIFTH Street,
Or to CHARKS . DUNN,
No. WALNUT Street,
8 30 naiw F.aecuturg.
"INSTATE OF EDWARD McBRIDE, DE-
Xj ceased, letters of administration upon the estate
ot saidducedtint having beeu granted to the undersigned,
ail persons indebted to said estute are requested to milks
pa ment, and thoso having claims to presont them with
out delay to
F. MORTIMER LP: WIS, Administrator,
SSmtit FAST WALNUT LANK, Uermuntown.
jyj E R R I C K & SONS
SOUTIIWARK FOUNDRY,
No. 430 WASHINGTON AVENUE, Philadelphia,
WILLIAM WRIGHT'S PATENT VARIABLE
CUT-OFF BTEAil ENGINE,
Regulated by the Governor.
MERRICK'S SAFETY HOISTING MACHINE,
Patented June, 1863.
DAVID JOY'S i
PATENT VALVELESS STEAM HAMMER.
D. M. WESTON'8 i
PATENT SELF-C'ENTHINO, 8ELF-BALANCIN
CENTRIFUGAL SUGAR-DRAINING MACHINE.
HYDRO EXTRACTOR.
For Cotton or Woollen Manufacturers. - TlOmwi '
I. VACOBN MZ&ftlOX. WILLIAM g. MKltUICK.
loss m. oopb.
JJARGH, FARE ELL & WARREN
UliLA-LKHS IN PAPERS
OF ALL KINDS, j
NO. 631 CHESNUT STREET
AND
NO. 624 JAYNE STREET,
t6m PHILADELPHIA.
-yy IRE O U A R D 8,
FOR STORE FRONTS, ASYLUMS, FAC
TORIES, ETC.
Patent Wire Railing, Iron Bedsteads, Ornamental
Wire Work, Paper-makers' Wires, and every variety
of Wire Work, manufactured by
M. WALKER A SON8,
8 8fmwt No. IX N. SIXTH Street.
1 OI1N FARNUM & CO., COMMISSION MER
1 1 chanta and Manufacturers of Uonastoulluking, eta.
NaaUUfc&NUTblmt. Philadelphia, 4 1 wfmj
I?MPIRE SLATE MANTEL WORKJB.-J. B.
It JUKES., No. aUtr3UittiN.LT gttMW lUirtai
WINE8.
THE BEST
CALIFORNIA WINE si
California, Hock, Claret and Spaxkling
lor laoie use. j
California Port and Brandy, for Med
cinal Purposes.
California Angelica and Muscatell, ti!
meit Ladies' wines, I
AT 3
rmiims, stern & co. g
Nos. 14 and 16 VESEY Street, New York,
No. 18 TREMONT Street, Boston,
And Nos. 84 and 36 LA SALLE 8treet, Chicago.
For sale In Philadelphia by
SIMON COLION A CLARKE,
JOHNSTON, HOLLO WAY & COWDEN,
CRIPPEN A MADDOCK,
BULLOCK A CRENSHAW,
RI'K A MUSSON,
WRIGHT A SIDDALL,
ROBERT BLACK A HON.
THOMFSON BLACK'S SON A CO.,
JAMES V. WEBB.
By A. H. HAY WARD, Germantnwn.
EWEN A BRO., Camden, New Jersey.
MfSOVQ lrt,. I'?,.'PmA.. Jl!.!. 186
oiciu i v,y,-uo wines fu
.... . ........ umt; iaj time uy vour flOllSG hivt
Klven entire satlafactHin to customers, and are dm
?Ma?Le .8rtlc. e ln our trad0- We ore pleased toM
nlile to say that we consider thm entirely mm
lruly joui-8, SIMON col .ton a -i lf,io
- vuttiviXli
,. , , . Philadelphia, July 23, ism
- " .'iwiu ( vu. luur lues haa
become a Htanln nrti-l nf mow b,, ,,h .7. ,mn
Rive our customers universal satisfaction. w5
such examination as we have Riven them, and til
re miff a .-n liui nf thom ... m
1. v LX woiiiive uuuuuoloi the
Stril't nilMtu P,ien.witr,.ll.. fc,,Ci
JOHNSTON, HOLLOWAY A COWDEX,
Piunvtr XT T t,,i
Messrs. rerfc Ins, Stern A C0.L-0,,, experience wit!
your lues and Braudlus reaches bark almost to t
introduction of t he roods to the people of the At
liintlo (states. W e have taken pains, at dimw
times, to submit them to sclcntlilc men for examin
twin nml fr.,., .1...!.. .... . .. "niu
....... I., it. nn- irpuru, mm me Browinitil
maud, we believe them pure and know them to gin
Batisiaciion. lours, verv truiv.
8 2 Hiwf 2m
tW N A BROTHER.
jllER MAJESTY
CHAMPAGNE.
DuriTon & Lussorj,
: 215 SOUTH FIIONT STREET.
THE ATTENTION OF THE TRADE U
soucited to the following very Choios Wines. (.. fa
DUNTON A LUSSON,
MS RWriTH KHOVT st'Dirirxi
OHAMPAGNK8. Airenta for her Majesty, Dno
Montobello, Carte Bleue, Carte Blanche, and ObarS
iarre s C.rand Vin Eo(?enie, and Vin Imperial, M. Kle
WINKS i Wayence, Sparkling Moselle and BUl5
M A DFITt AS. Old Island, South Bide Reserre.
SHFRRIK8 -K Rudolpbe. Amontillado! Xopas. V(
lette, Pale and Golden bar, Orown, eto.
Sl,?I?;i9ho Veluo Real, Valletta, and Grown.
GLARKT8 Promts Aine A Die., Montferrand and Bo
deau-x. Claret, and Kauterne Wine.
GlN.-"McderKwan."
KRANDliCS. Hennessey, Otard, Dupny A Oo.'.Tarlot
c
A K S T A 1 11 S & MoOALl
Nos. 126 WALNUT and 21 GRANITE Street.
Importers of
BRANDIES, WINKS, GIN, OLIVE OIL, ETO.
AMD
COMMISSION MERCHANTS
For tha mil a nf
PURE OLD RYE. WHEAT, AND BOURBON WHI
ik.iH.a. sasiirt
CARSTAIRS' OLIVE OIL-AN INVOICI
of the above for sale by 1
ft A P ST A TP Q Mofliri 1
K OS 9n8 Km l'UniIIIIII'i..Jol iiDiui'M,?..'
1
CROCERIES AND PROVISIONS
IEW SPICED SALMON
FIRST OF THE SEASON. t
ALBERT C ROBERTS,
Dealer ln Fine Groceries.
11 T5 Corner ELEVENTH and VINE Street!
I C H A E L MEAGHER & CC
NO. 823 South SIXTEENTH Street,
Wholesale and Retail Dealers in
PROVISIONS,
OYSTERS. AND SAND CLAMS.
FOR FAMILY utf
TKKKAFINH fl PER DOZEN. 8l
3
ENGINES, MACHINERY. ETO.
PENN STEAM ENGINE At
; BOILKR WORKS. NKA FIE A I.KV
'PRACTICAL AND THKORKTIOI
UAKiLltSTbLAOKKMITHS. and FOUND KRS. tun
for many year, been in suooenaful operation, and been
cluaiveiy engaged In building and repairing Marine i
River Jinginee. high and low-pressure, Iron Boilers, VVl
Tanks, Propellers, eto., eto,, rospectfnlly Oder their I
vice, to the public as being fnlly prepared to contract
engines of all sices. Marine, River, and Stationary; hail
Beta of patterns of different sir.es, are prepared to eiea
orders with quick (leepatoh. Every description of patt
making made at tne anorteet notice. Uign and Low-n
sure F ine Tubular and Uylinder Boilers of the beat I't
sylvania Charcoal Iron. Forging, of all air.es and kit
Iron and Brass Castings of all description.. Roll Turnt
Sorew (Jotting, and all other work connected with 1
above business. 1
Drawings and specifications for all work done at I
establishment free of oharge, and work guaranteed. 1
The subscribers bare ample wharf dock-room for reDf
of boats, where they oan lie in perfect safety, and are t
Tided with shears, blocks, faUs, eto. eta., tor raisins h
or light weight.
JAOOR n vvivn
815
vuuniwMft fULNDKr. FIFTH A!
ATTfTTIir a - ir
PHILADELPHIA.
MERRICK t SONS
ENGINEERS AMI! Miiuivioik.
mannfacture High and Low Pressure Steam Emrlf
for Land. River, and Marina h,.... "-luu -ngii
11. .11.. rii...r 7- ,7, - '
Railroad Stations, etn.
Retorts and Gas Machinery of the latest ann J
lninroved construction. 1 m H
jtvery aescriptton of Plantation MachinAnr ,
Sugar, Saw, and. Grist Mills, Vacuiun T PaTi
Sole Agents for N. BUleux'g Sugar Boiiino-aJ
4 an
Q I R A R D TUBE. WORld
JOHN H. MURPHY A BROS. j
DluuXactiu-era .f Wr..lu jrPJ pipe, Kti
PHILADELPHIA PA. 1
, WORKS, 1
TWENTY-TILLED su4 FILBERT Street,,'
' OFFICE. m
w a PUrtiv FII-TH ffereet. ?
T)R. KINKELIN CAN BE CONSULTED
ajwuuid, vxaauuiBkern, latlKS. Iron Rnnio Ai
C astings of all kin.ts', either IroS or
Iron i'rame Rrmfa fr jou r.i." "..."i.88-
if vi as, nurasnops,
ML 11 It JX. W M VWW w " ' - -