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A measurement of Boltzmann's constant by means of the fluctuations of electron pressure in a conductor

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  24 October 2008

H. D. Ellis  and
E. B. Moullin
H. D. Ellis
Affiliation:
Peterhouse
E. B. Moullin
Affiliation:
King's College, and Magdalen College, Oxford
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Extract

This paper describes a repetition of J. B. Johnson's determination of Boltzmann's constant by observing the thermal agitation of electrons in a conductor. The principle of the measurement is described and the various sources of error are examined separately. The attenuator system of the calibrating circuit is discussed in detail and mutual agreement established between the three different attenuating systems. The valve amplifier had a maximum response which could be arranged to occur at any frequency between 1000 and 4000 cycles/sec. The mean value of 52 determinations of Boltzmann's constant (with the amplifier set to respond to one of four frequencies within the range 1 to 4 k.c./s.) was found to be 1·361 × 10−16 ergs per degree, with a probable error of 1·42%: this value is 0·8% less than the accepted value of 1·372 × 10−16 ergs per degree. The investigation developed out of a research initiated with a directly practical objective; we desire to express our thanks to the Hebdomadal Council of the University of Oxford, who by a grant to one of us have enabled this section of the work to be completed.

Type
Research Article
Information
Mathematical Proceedings of the Cambridge Philosophical Society , Volume 28 , Issue 3 , July 1932 , pp. 386 - 402
Copyright
Copyright © Cambridge Philosophical Society 1932

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References

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