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Carbon dioxide Books
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Joseph Black
Experiments upon magnesia alba, Quicklime, and some other Alcaline Substances
"Experiments upon Magnesia Alba, Quicklime, and some other Alcaline Substances" by Joseph Black, M.D. is a scientific publication written in the mid-18th century. Authored by a prominent chemist and Professor of Chemistry at the University of Edinburgh, the book presents a thorough investigation of various alkaline substances and their properties, particularly focusing on magnesia alba and quicklime. It marks a significant contribution to the early development of modern chemistry, highlighting experimental methods and quantitative analysis. In this work, Black meticulously documents a series of experiments aimed at understanding the chemical properties and behavioral interactions of magnesia alba and quicklime with various acids and other substances. He elucidates the process of obtaining magnesia from different sources, such as epsom salt and the mother of nitre, and investigates their behavior in reactions with acids like vitriolic and nitrous acid. The experiments reveal the distinct behaviors of these alkaline substances, particularly how they absorb fixed air and their ability to interact with acids, which led Black to propose foundational ideas regarding the properties of alkaline earths. His careful documentation of these experiments not only showcases the emerging quantitative method in chemistry but also provides early insights into acid-base reactions, setting a precedent for future chemical research.
Henry Hill Hickman
A Letter on Suspended Animation containing experiments shewing that it may be safely employed during operations on animals
"A Letter on Suspended Animation" by Henry Hill Hickman is a scientific publication written in the early 19th century. This work delves into the concept of suspended animation, particularly its potential application in surgical operations. Hickman presents a series of experiments conducted on animals to demonstrate the feasibility and safety of performing surgeries while the subjects are in a torpid state. In this letter, Hickman addresses T. A. Knight, sharing his findings on the effects of suspension of animation using carbonic acid gas and other methods. He reports that animals subjected to these conditions exhibited minimal suffering, with wounds healing rapidly and without complications. Hickman argues that surgeries could be performed with equal safety on insensate subjects compared to conscious ones, ultimately reducing patient anxiety and pain. His observations aim to encourage further exploration into this innovative approach in surgery, asserting that it could revolutionize the treatment of conditions requiring surgical intervention.
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