Abstract
THE first-named of these books is a really good text-book for laboratory use; the experiments are clearly described; most useful “laboratory hints” are given; conclusions are carefully drawn from the experimental data obtained. The methods for proving the definition of boiling point, for illustrating the manufacture of sulphuric acid, and for confirming quantitatively the equation KClO3 = O3 + KCl, are especially to be praised. The student who works through this book will have laid a good foundation on which he may afterwards build; only let him skip those parts which deal with “chemical philosophy.” Why should he begin his chemical career by learning that “combining weight” is synonymous with “atomic weight” (p. 31)? Why should he trouble himself with committing to memory the “atomicity” of the most important elements as given on p. 27 of this book? Why should he draw from the statement of Avogadro's law the erroneous conclusion that “the molecules of all gases are of the same size”? Why should he deceive himself by fancying that the formula N—O—N (p. 143) gives him accurate and well-grounded information regarding the molecule of nitrous oxide? No good reason can be given for doing any of these things, therefore let the student use this book as a laboratory guide only, and he will doubtless find it a trustworthy guide.
Inorganic Chemistry, Theoretical and Practical.
An Elementary Text-Book. By William Jago., &c. (London: Longmans, Green, and Co., 1881.)
Practical Chemistry.
Adapted to the First Stage of the Revised Syllabus of the Science and Art Department. By J. Howard., &c. (London and Glasgow: William Collins, Sons, and Co., Limited, 1881.)
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Inorganic Chemistry, Theoretical and Practical Practical Chemistry . Nature 25, 150 (1881). https://doi.org/10.1038/025150a0
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/025150a0