WCP2805

[1]

[Note: Adopted]

Notes

Chemistry

p.2

1 Might better read "no constant relation between the atomic weights and specific gravities of the elements in their solid state."

p.4

2 "Chemical composition" preferably: "constitution[?]" is generally reserved for the arrangement or configuration of the atoms in the molecule.

p.11

3 Helium has been found (by Dewar) in the gases from the mineral spring at Bath.

p.18

4 "Yttrium[?]" molecule strictly — a molecule of a homogeneous element cannot be [2] split up — tho' undoubtedly, Sir W. Crooke's researches point to such a possibility in such cases as the present. Perhaps it might be well to add "These new substances have been termed "meta-elements" (Crooke himself suggested this name).

p.20

5 Better omit "Naphtha" (a rather wide term, & is got from mineral oil & wood spirit), also artificial quinine. "Artificial musk" might be added, and salicylic acid.

6 after "area" might be added "and many others, including many varieties of sugar which were formerly only to be found in plants."

[3]

Suggestions (H Gravett¹)

1. p.14.

Roentgen Rays

Possibly it wd. Be of interest to mention the remarkable physiological action of the rays: these will frequently set up a peculiar form of skin irritation in the hands, etc., of those often exposed to this action, causing loss of cutaneous tissues, removal of hair, etc., & in some causes even affecting deep-seated tissues & organs. Certain curative action has also been claimed for them. [Note: "Yes"]

2 p.15a. "can" be reflected should evidently be "cannot". [4]

3 p.21.

As to an inorganic "life" I cannot venture to oppose the theory — but suggest that it is open to criticism from those who would view "life" not as a "vital force" but as a series of highly complex chemical & physical phenomena. This may fit in with what you put forward. Possibly if the word "life" appeared in quotation marks it might be less open to criticism.

Possibly you may have read an extremely suggestive address delivered to the British Association by the President of the Chemical Section, Prof. Japp¹, of Aberdeen University, at its meeting in (I think) 1899. He dealt chiefly with some special relations of chemistry [5] & organic life & seemed to think that the vital force was a misnomer yet there was a certain selective or directing action at work in all life processes. The point is argued very forcibly from a purely chemical & physical standpoint. Unfortunately, I lent my copy of the paper & never got it back or should have sent it. Probably you could obtain a copy — which might interest you or possibly be of service in some section of your work. [Note: "Got It"]