XVI. Residual charge of the leyden jar.—Dielectric properties of different glasses

Abstract

I. Before proceeding to comparative experiments on different glasses, it appeared desirable to verify experimentally the two following propositions:— ( a ) If two jars be made of the same glass but of different thicknesses, if they be charged to the same potential for equal times, discharged for equal times and then insulated, the residual charge will after equal times have the same potential in each. In experiments in which potentials and not quantities of electricity are measured the thickness of the jar may be chosen arbitrarily, nor need any inconvenience be feared from irregularities of thickness ( b ) Residual charge is proportional to exciting charge. These propositions may be included in one law—that superposition of simultaneous forces is applicable to the phenomena of residual charge.