Time variation of the coupling constants

The possibility of the variation with time of the electromagnetic and strong coupling constants is investigated using nuclear systematics. Previous work by Dyson (1967) and Broulik and Trefil (see abstr. A57272 of 1971) is re-examined and extended, with the conclusion that Teller's hypothesis of a logarithmic time dependence of the fine structure constant is apparently within the limits discussed if there is a corresponding logarithmic time dependence of the strong coupling constant also. Moreover the recent discovery of naturally occurring ²⁴⁴Pu places the Gamow hypothesis of e² approximately t much nearer the allowable limits than had previously been supposed.