268 THE CANADIAN NATURALIST. [Jail. 



the action of the barometer, the siphon, the common pump 

 and forcing pump, and the air-pump. 



c. In Acoustics. — The nature of sound. 



d. In Optics. — The laws of refraction and reflection, and the 

 formation of images by simple lenses. 



e. In Chemistry. — The phenomena and laws of heat; the 

 chemistry of the non-metallic elements ; general nature of 

 acids, gases, &c. ; constitution of the atmosphere ; composi- 

 tion of water, &c. 



At the examination for the degree of B.A. a more extensive 

 knowledge of these subjects is required, and the candidate is further 

 examined in the following branches of science : — 

 /. Astronomy. — Principal phenomena depending on the motion 

 of the earth round the sun, and on its rotation about its own 

 axis ; general description of the solar system, and explana- 

 tion of lunar and solar eclipses. 

 g. Animal Physiology. — The properties of the elementary 

 animal textures ; the principles of animal mechanics ; the 

 processes of digestion, absorption, assimilation ; the general 

 plan of circulation in the great divisions of the animal king- 

 dom ; the mechanism of respiration ; the structure and actions 

 of the nervous system ; and the organs of sense. 



Besides the degree examination there is also an examination for 

 honours in mathematics and natural philosophy, in which, of course, 

 a much wider range of scientific knowledge is required. 



We would venture to remark that, if a similar elementary 

 acquaintance with the general principles of sciences were required 

 for matriculation at Oxford and Cambridge, it is certain that they 

 would at once become a subject of regular teaching in all our great 

 public schools. 



There are also two specially scientific degrees, a Bachelor of 

 Science, and a Doctor of Science. For the B. S. there are two 

 examinations of a general but highly scientific character. The 

 degree of D. S. can only be obtained after the expiration of two 

 years subsequent to the taking the degree of B. S. The candidate 

 is allowed to select one principal subject, and to prove his thorough 

 practical knowledge thereof, as well as a general acquaintance with 

 other subsidiary subjects. 



