The meaning of 'Extension' in History of Physics

In summary, Leibniz sought to supersede the Cartesian view of corporeal substance by prioritizing force over extension in his work Specimen dynamicum. This idea is further explored in Duhem's Evolution of Mechanics, where force is seen as an irreducible property of material substance. The concept of extension is often used in these discussions, referring to the property of taking up space. However, its exact meaning may vary depending on the context and the author's perspective.
  • #1
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I was reading the Wikipedia page on Dynamism in order to get an idea of the motivation and thinking behind Liebniz's physics. In it there is this paragraph:

In the opening paragraph of Specimen dynamicum (1692), Leibniz begins by clarifying his intention to supersede the Cartesian account of corporeal substance by asserting the priority of force over extension.

Additionally, while browsing through PMM Duhems text, Evolution of Mechanics he discusses how force is something irreducible to geometry and extension:

And finally, yet other, pursuing to the end the ideas of Leibniz, did not hesitate to see in force a notion irreducible to extension and motion, a first and essential property of material substance.

I'm confused on what the thought is behind this concept of extension. My understanding is that these philosophers were attempting to reduce to first principles and to keep things as geometric as possible and so they attempted to explain mechanics and dynamics only through direct physical contact and thus required things like gravity where action at a distance is observed to be due to an unobserved extension of the physical bodies actually making contact with one another -- or like the Cartesians who imagined space to be filled with vortices which actually pushed and pulled on pieces through direct contact.

is this the meaning of extension in these concepts and philosophies?
 
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  • #2
"extension" is "the property of taking up space".
The various discussions should make the matter clear by context - the exact use will vary with the author.
 

1. What is the definition of "extension" in the context of the history of physics?

Extension refers to the physical property of matter that allows it to occupy space and have a measurable size, shape, and volume. It is a fundamental concept in physics and has been a subject of study and debate throughout the history of the field.

2. How has the understanding of extension evolved in the history of physics?

The understanding of extension has evolved significantly in the history of physics. In ancient times, the concept of extension was closely tied to the idea of matter and its physical properties. However, with the emergence of modern physics and the development of theories such as relativity and quantum mechanics, the concept of extension has become more complex and has been redefined in terms of space-time and subatomic particles.

3. What role does extension play in the laws of physics?

Extension plays a crucial role in the laws of physics. The concept of extension is central to the laws of motion, as described by Newton's three laws of motion. It also plays a role in other fundamental laws such as the law of conservation of mass and energy. Without the concept of extension, many of the fundamental principles and equations of physics would not exist.

4. How has technology influenced the study of extension in physics?

Technology has had a significant impact on the study of extension in physics. The development of advanced tools and instruments, such as microscopes and telescopes, has allowed scientists to observe and measure extension at a microscopic and astronomical scale. This has greatly expanded our understanding of the physical world and has led to new discoveries and theories.

5. Can the concept of extension be applied to other fields outside of physics?

Yes, the concept of extension can be applied to other fields outside of physics. For example, in psychology, the concept of extension is used to describe the perception of space and distance. In philosophy, it is used to explore the nature of objects and their relationship to space. The concept of extension also has applications in engineering, architecture, and other scientific disciplines.

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