A Dynamical Theory of the Electromagnetic Field

Maxwell's groundbreaking work in electromagnetism is captured in this pivotal 1865 paper, where he introduces the original set of four equations that describe the electromagnetic field. This document marks the first use of the concept of displacement current, previously introduced in 1861, to derive the electromagnetic wave equation. A full facsimile of the original edition, this reprint preserves the historical significance of Maxwell's contributions to physics, showcasing a key moment in the understanding of electromagnetic phenomena.