272 THE POTASSIUM 



the latter is found at all times incomparably 

 greater in quantity. The author of this paper 

 has frequently decomposed water in four succes- 

 sive cells, by the current from a single Electrical 

 Machine, and yet, to effect decomposition in one 

 ■cell by voltaic power, several pairs are required. 



It is found that this state of polarization is at 

 all times accompanied by other characteristics, in 

 proportion to its intensity. It is observable, that 

 the higher the polar condition, the greater are its 

 powers of transmission, or conduction, through 

 various known aeriform media, liquids, and solid 

 bodies. 



And when at its maximum, as seen in ordinary 

 Electricity and Lightning, it is found to be 

 accompanied by, and capable of inducing attraction 

 and repulsion of whole substances of a light 

 nature, as gold leaf, pith balls, &c. &c. 



The power of Chemical combination and 

 decomposition appears to be also dependant upon 

 this quality, or polar condition of bodies. 



Mr. Gassiot has shown, that deflection of gold 

 leaf may be produced, or developed, by chemical 



