Table of contents

Maxwell's fundamental studies in the period 1859–1879 on molecular physics and allied subjects are considered. His two very important papers of 1859 and 1866 on the dynamical theory of gases are analyzed, as are his two last extensive papers of 1879 on transport phenomena in rarefied gases and on statistical mechanics. Other papers, notes, lectures, and his book on the theory of heat are also considered. Particular attention is devoted to Maxwell's pioneering contribution to the development of statistical methods and his deep understanding of the statistical origin of the second law of thermodynamics. The connection between the work of Maxwell and that of Clausius and Boltzmann is discussed. It is emphasized that the development by Boltzmann of statistical methods was based to a large degree on the pioneering work of Maxwell. The influence of Maxwell's ideas on the development of the theory of inhomogeneous gases in the present century is also demonstrated.

Some of the features of the "Treatise on Electricity and Magnetism" (on which Maxwell continued to work until the end of his life after the first editon of 1873) are discussed. They relate to the language, style, construction, and mode of reasoning. The text of the "Treatise" provides an indication of the arguments that led Maxwell to his equations of electrodynamics, and his subsequent editing throws light on his further intentions. Close examination of the "Treatise" reveals that some deeply rooted existing views on the original content and form of Maxwell's equations, and also their history, are in fact fallacious.