The theorem that was none - I. Early history

TL;DR

This paper traces the early development of the Vogt-Russell theorem, highlighting its origins, formulation, and subsequent recognition of its limitations in a historical context.

Contribution

It provides a detailed historical analysis of the Vogt-Russell theorem's evolution and its transition from a presumed theorem to its acknowledged limitations.

Findings

The Vogt-Russell theorem originated from a correlation between star mass and luminosity.

Initial formulation of the theorem was based on observational data of binary and pulsating stars.

The theorem's limitations became apparent as early signs of its failure to serve as a strict mathematical theorem emerged.

Abstract

The early history of the Vogt-Russell theorem is retraced following its route starting at the realization of a correlation between mass and luminosity of binary and pulsating stars, through the embossing of this observation into a theorem, and finally to the emerging first signs of its failure to serve as a theorem in the strict mathematical sense of the word.