Huygens' center-of-mass space-time reference frame

constructing a cartesian dynamics in the wake of Newton's "de gravitatione" argument

Edward Slowik

pp. 247-269

in: Synthese 112 (2), 1997.

Abstract

This paper explores the possibility of constructing a Cartesian space-time that can resolve the dilemma posed by a famous argument from Newton's early essay, De gravitatione. In particular, Huygens' concept of a center-of-mass reference frame is utilized in an attempt to reconcile Descartes' relationalist theory of space and motion with both the Cartesian analysis of bodily impact and conservation law for quantity of motion. After presenting a modern formulation of a Cartesian space-time employing Huygens' frames, a series of Newtonian counter-replies are developed in order to estimate the viability of this relationalist project.

Cited authors

Descartes René