Radio-activity and Geology

Abstract

THOSE who are acquainted with Prof. Joly's presidential address to Section C at Dublin last year will not be surprised at the appearance of this volume from his pen. One of the most remarkable chapters the scientific historian has yet to write is the story of the rapid progress of research into the phenomena of atomic instability. In the spontaneous disruption of atoms, showing itself in the phenomena of radio-activity, we have learned of a store of energy of immense magnitude hitherto undreamt of. The fact alone that atoms are unstable systems has enlarged immeasurably the scope of our speculations regarding all inorganic evolution, while the knowledge of the forces locked up in them has still more directly affected almost every department of science. It is impossible that the geologist should long remain indifferent to this new phase of scientific inquiry, and it is Prof. Joly's endeavour to show him that already he must give heed to its teachings, and to point out where attention must be given. As being himself an active investigator, able both as physicist and geologist, no one better qualified for the task could be found, and his work must be carefully considered by every thoughtful geologist, however much any of his conclusions may be controverted.