1 8 8 D O C U M E N T 3 0 1 N O V E M B E R 1 9 2 1
11. There are, of course, many problems still. For inst. How are we now to
explain the emission of “angular momentum” that plays a
role[11]
in Sommerfeld’s
theory (circularly polarized light)? As with energy and momentum, the angular
momentum must likewise originate from the quanta. In a single elementary pro-
cess, just one quantum is involved, and that can scarcely have the required angular
momentum. Very many quanta, on average, certainly can have it.
12. Other problems. In a metal or in any other strongly absorbing medium
(anomalous dispersion) the velocity of propagation and the weakening during
propagation will depend on the absorption. The interference radiation, which is
supposed to obey the most common laws of optics, must therefore be influenced in
its propagation by the absorption, even though such absorption has not yet actually
taken place.
——————
299. From Ellen Siemens-Helmholtz[1]
Wannsee, Siemens Villa, 14 November 1921
[Not selected for translation.]
300. From Noémi Stricker[1]
Berlin, 15 November 1921
[Not selected for translation.]
301. From Henri Barbusse
Aumort par Senlis (Oise), France, 17 November 1921
Dear and illustrious Sir,
I approach you on my own behalf and in the name of my companions on the edi-
torial committee of our journal
Clarté[1]
to ask whether you would consent to writ-
ing something along the lines of a broad popularization for this journal. It is
understood that I am not presuming to ask you for an important study or an exten-
sive article. It would suffice for us to have a few pages or even a few lines from you
in order to be able to have the pleasure of inserting your name in our abstract.
I knew from various comrades and friends from Germany that you were inter-
ested in the Clarté
movement.[2]
I learned that circumstances have since distanced
you a little from it. I think that a man of your importance, having the authority and
prestige you have, would be doing a meritorious deed by supporting our intellectual
movement through the authority of his name.
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