396 POPULAR SCIENCE MONTHLY. 



dissociation grew out of our old conception of atoms and molecules. 

 Sometimes we hear the objection that this idea may not be true, but 

 only a good working hypothesis. This objection, however, is in reality 

 no objection at all, for we can never be certain that we have found the 

 ultimate truth. The conception of molecules and atoms is sometimes 

 refuted on philosophical grounds, but till he has got a better and more 

 convenient representation of chemical phenomena, the chemist will, no 

 doubt, continue to use the atomic theory without scruple. Exactly the 

 same is the case for the electrolytic dissociation theory. - 



This theory has shown us that in the chemical world the most 

 important role is played by atoms or complexes of atoms, that are 

 charged with electricity. The common tendency of scientific investi- 

 gation seems to give an even more preponderating position to electricity, 

 the mightiest agent of nature. This development is now proceeding 

 very rapidly. Already we see not only how the theory of electrons of 

 J. J. Thomson, in which matter is reduced to a very insignificant part, 

 is developing, but also how efforts are made with good success to explain 

 matter as only a manifestation of electrodynamic forces (Kaufmann- 

 Abraham). 



To these modern developments the work of British men of science 

 has contributed in the most effective manner. The bold previsions of 

 Sir William Crookes seem to be rapidly acquiring a concrete form, to 

 the great benefit of scientific evolution. 



