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Note.-In cases where the above symbols have other meanings, the context will obviate
ambiguity. Thus V may sometimes mean velocity; H may mean heat; and p may mean
specific resistance.

ELECTRICITY.

CHAPTER I.

GENERAL PHENOMENA OF MAGNETISM.

§ 1. Introductory.-The subjects of magnetism and electricity are in reality not two, but one; all inagnetic, electro-magnetic, and voltaic phenomena―to use terms with which most of our readers will have some acquaintance-belong to one great branch of science for which we have not yet one comprehensive name. Perhaps it might be more logical were we to give at once a general survey of all the above-named classes of phenomena before proceeding to a more detailed discussion of each. But, as in this course no previous knowledge has been assumed, it has been thought better to avoid any chance there might be of confusing the mind of the student by the presentation of a multitude of strange facts, and hence we shall first discuss the main phenomena of magnetism. A study of these will serve as a training to the beginner, and he will incidentally become acquainted with many facts and conceptions that will prove to be of great value in the study of the other branches of our science.

§ 2. First Phenomena observed.—Accustomed as most of us are to the use of a 'magnet,' there is still something very startling in the simple elementary experiment with a 'magnet' or a piece of lodestone. When a piece of lodestone (magnetic oxide of iron, Fe3O4, magnetised by the influence of the earth) is held above a piece of iron or steel of not too great weight, the piece of iron or steel will move up to the lodestone, against the force due to gravity. And, more remarkable still, the lodestone can convert pieces of hard steel into permanent magnets,' it being

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