"When a hypothesis no longer suffices to explain phenomena, it should be abandoned. This is the case with... caloric as matter, as a subtile fluid. The experimental facts tending to destroy this theory are as follows: (1) The development of heat by percussion or the friction of bodies (experiments of Rumford, friction of wheels on... axles...). Here the elevation of temperature takes place at the same time in the body rubbing and the body rubbed. ...Thus heat is produced by motion. If... [caloric] is matter... matter is created by motion. (2) ...[A]ir compressed by the pumps must rise in temperature above the air outside, and it is expelled at a higher temperature. ...Thus heat has been created by motion."

Quote Details

Added by wikiquote-import-bot
Added on April 10, 2026
Unverified quote
0 likes
Original Language: English

Sources

Imported from EN Wikiquote

https://en.wikiquote.org/wiki/Nicolas_L%C3%A9onard_Sadi_Carnot