Note 137 — Chapter XXXVIII · THE METHODOLOGY OF SCIENCE (continued 2)

In this case, however, Laplace’s equation is of the two-dimensional variety and not of the usual three-dimensional type which defines the distribution of the Newtonian potential in the empty space around a gravitational mass of finite dimensions. However, the two-dimensional Laplace equation also gives the distribution of the potential around matter in special instances. Such is the case when we consider an attracting cylinder of uniform density, finite section and infinite length.