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8vo. 5.25 x 8 inches. lxxxvi + [1] + 10-473 pp. + [1] pp. [1], a-k4, l-l2, B-3L4, M1. Illustrated by 9 plates, including 8 folding, with one facing title page, one at end of supplement and plates I-VII at end and by engraved title-page. Includes advertisement, summary introduction and a supplement at beginning and the essay on magnetism a catalogue of mathematical instruments at end. Bound in original calf; spine divided into compartments by raised bands and double gilt lines, with red morocco label. Extremities worn, front / back joints loose. Some browning and staining. Tear at foot of p. lxxxv, not affecting legibility of text. Plates II and III lack folded sections and plate IV frayed and torn, with small missing section of pictorial content. Rear endpapers wormed at top corner. Otherwise good condition. The late eighteenth century was fascinated by the mysterious power of electricity and Adams provides a systematic guide to its power in nature and applications in the laboratory: 'The science of electricity is now generally acknowledged to be useful and important; and there is great reason to think, that at a future period it will be looked up to as the source from whence the principles and properties of natural philosophy must be derived. It's utility to man will not be inferior to it's dignity as a science' (Preface). As might be expected from an instrument maker, much of the book describes practical experiment (237 are described with an additional 56 in the essay on magnetism), using equipment (including batteries which are formed of Leyden jars and electrical machines), illustrated in the plates and available from the Adams business. The author is aware of the pioneering work carried out by Franklin and Volta and also devotes a chapter to atmospheric electricity, including experiments with kites and another to medical electricity. George Adams (1750-95) continued the scientific instrument business, opened by his father, George senior (1709-1772) at the sign of Tycho Brahe's Head in Fleet Street, in 1734. He also took over his father's position as mathematical instrument maker to George III. The Essay on Electricity was first published in 1784, with a second edition appearing in 1785, which was translated int German. This enlarged third edition contains a supplement, with an account of the latest discoveries and experiments. Fourth and fifth editions appeared in 1792 and 1799. Adams published several other books, including, Essays on the Microscope, An Essay on Vision, Astronomical and Geographical Essays and the five volume, Lectures on Natural and Experimental Philosophy, this having a strong religious theme. The Adams instrument and globe making business continued in the family until 1817. OUT ELECTRICITY SCIENCE- PHYSICS NON-FICTION OUT.
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