vortex theory

1 definition found

vortex theory - Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48 :

  Vortex theory \Vortex theory\ (Chem. & Physics)
     The theory, advanced by Thomson (Lord Kelvin) on the basis of
     investigation by Helmholtz, that the atoms are vortically
     moving ring-shaped masses (or masses of other forms having a
     similar internal motion) of a homogeneous, incompressible,
     frictionless fluid. Various properties of such atoms (
  
     vortex atoms) can be mathematically deduced. This theory is
        now (1998) obsolete, and has been superseded by quantum
        mechanics, which provides more accurate and detailed
        explanations of atomic behavior.
        [Webster 1913 Suppl. +PJC]