Collapsar Classics, inspired by the centuries-long popularity of abridgments with readers and the astronomical marvel of two stars combining into a collapsar, provides condensed reading experiences that distill the essence of each work into an engaging and convenient 4" x 6" phone-sized paperback that can go anywhere and is a wonderful side gift for your favorite inquiring mind.
In a world increasingly concerned about the environment and sustainability, the question of how to manage and utilize resources efficiently has taken center stage. This book, "Experiments upon Magnesia Alba, Quicklime, and Some Other Alkaline Substances" by Joseph Black, delves into the very foundations of chemistry and offers invaluable insights into the nature of materials like lime, magnesia, and alkalis. Black's meticulous experiments, conducted in the mid-18th century, provide a groundbreaking understanding of the role of fixed air (carbon dioxide) in these substances, paving the way for future advancements in chemical analysis and understanding. Through his innovative quantitative methods, Black unravels the secrets behind the reactions and transformations of these materials, revealing how they gain and lose weight, absorb air, and interact with acids. This comprehensive examination of the fundamental properties of lime, magnesia, and alkalis offers a historical lens on the evolution of chemistry and provides a foundation for understanding crucial processes like the production of quicklime, the formation of caustic alkali, and the role of these materials in various chemical reactions. This reprint of Black's seminal work is a must-read for researchers, students, and anyone interested in the history and practice of chemistry, as it presents a compelling narrative of scientific discovery, experimentation, and the profound impact of understanding the nature of everyday substances.
Review :
This is a reprint of a 1756 paper by Joseph Black, a pioneer in the field of chemistry. The paper is full of fascinating observations, and it was historically significant, but, dear reader, be warned: this is not a casual read.
What's Good:
- You get a glimpse into the early days of chemistry. Black's careful experiments and meticulous observations are a window into a time when chemistry was much more of an art than a science.
- It's a remarkable work for its time. Black's experiments helped to lay the foundation for our modern understanding of chemical reactions and the nature of substances like lime and alkalis.
- It's a treasure for the history of science buff. For those with a genuine interest in the history of chemistry, Black's paper is a must-read.
What's Less Good:
- It's a bit of a slog. Black's writing is formal, dry, and full of long, convoluted sentences. Prepare for a lot of "altho'," "thereby," and "wherewith."
- The paper is filled with outdated terminology and concepts. For example, Black uses the term "fixed air" to refer to carbon dioxide.
- It's long and detailed, but sometimes meandering. Black doesn't shy away from lengthy descriptions of his experiments and observations, and sometimes the details go on and on.
In a Nutshell:
If you're a history of science enthusiast and are prepared for a challenging read, this paper might be for you. But if you're looking for a light, engaging read, this isn't it.
To help with your reading journey, we recommend:
- Having a strong cup of coffee or tea.
- Keeping a dictionary handy.
- Perhaps indulging in a bit of "Truth in Publishing" before each section.
