330 Science and Industrial Problems [Feb. 5, 



Time will not permit me to review the many economic advantages 

 which have accrued as the result of the application of science to the 

 solution of industrial problems ; but I may mention the catalytic 

 jDrocess for making sulphuric acid, which substance may be described 

 as the basis of all chemical industry ; further, the synthetic produc- 

 tion of nitric acid and ammonia from atmospheric nitrogen ; the 

 investigation of the rare earths and the resulting improvements in 

 lighting due to the use of metallic filament lamps ; the synthetic 

 formation of precious stones, such as the ruby ; the production of 

 dye stuffs of all conceivable shades, including synthetic indigo, on 

 which it is stated nearly £1,000,000 was expended l)efore final 

 success was obtained ; the hardening of fats ; the production of 

 explosives, synthetic remedies and many of the natural perfumes 

 contained in flowers and plants. 



Yery little of the work connected with the technical side of these 

 problems has been done in this country, not because we have not any 

 intelligent manufacturers, chemists, or workmen, but because the 

 nation has not yet learnt to appreciate the value of scientific 

 enquiry. English money is quickly forthcoming when a clear and 

 immediate 5-10 per cent profit is discernible, but it has not been 

 forthcoming for investment in research, where a return is certain, 

 though it is impossible to say what length of time will be necessary 

 to ensure victory. 



Xor will money alone bring success, which will only be attained 

 when the individual members of our Governments, of our Houses of 

 Parliament, and of the community at large, have learnt to appreciate 

 one fact — namely, that 



" It is pure and organized scientific research work, carried out in 

 the laboratory, which is the soul of industrial prosperity." 



[A. C] 



