Tuesday, January 17, 2006

Pebbles on the Shore

"Lex I. Corpus omne perseverare in statu suo quiescendi vel movendi uniformiter in directum, nisi quatenus illud a viribus impressis cogitur statum suum mutare."

"Lex II. Mutationem motus proportionalem esse vi motrici impressae, & fieri secundum lineam rectam qua vis illa imprimatur."

"Lex III. Actioni contrariam semper & aequalem esse reactionem: sive corporum duorum actiones in se mutuo semper esse aequales & in partes contrarias dirigi."

Newton was born December 25, 1642 (Olde Style). The Laws of Motion (above) are familiar to every physics student. One of the books I hope to start reading this year is his Principia - or Principles, since it will be in English. If I make it through Book 1 (of 3), that will be plenty.

The book starts with a definition that firmly states his lack of regard for anything other than space existing between objects. I guess others had built their physics with something besides empty space in the 'in betweens.' So, there is either something, or there is space. I'll keep you posted as I learn more...

I am interested in increasing some the space immediately around me, and one way to effect this is good old exercise and eating right. Did half an hour aerobics at Y, and less sugar with breakfast. Simple formula, we'll see how it goes.

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