Lehrbuch der organischen Qualitativen Analyse

Abstract

THERE is no branch of qualitative chemical analysis in such an unsatisfactory condition as that which deals with organic acids and bases. The plans on which examinations in practical chemistry are generally conducted are probably largely to blame for this unsatisfactoriness. Examiners require a knowledge of the separation and identification of organic acids, in addition to the ordinary power of analysing a mixture of inorganic substances; one day is probably considered sufficient time to devote to the examination. Candidates must make themselves acquainted with a few of the tests for organic acids; they find these in all the text-books of analysis; they repeat the tests, and manage to stumble through the examination. The truth is that the detection of organic compounds, even when but a few of these are present, is far too complex and difficult a process for repetition in the hurry and bustle of the examination-room. Were all organic compounds omitted from the examinations in practical chemistry at the leading schools of medicine and science, we have no doubt that in a few years the processes for detecting these compounds would be largely improved.

Lehrbuch der organischen Qualitativen Analyse.

Von Dr. Chr. Th. Barfoed. (Kopenhagen: Andr. Frest und Sohn, 1880.)