15 



by processes similar to those by which many metals are prepared 

 from their compounds. Notwithstanding the extraordinary difficul- 

 ties of the research, Professor Bunsen carried it through completely, 

 and with such accuracy that every one of his results has stood the 

 test of subsequent investigation, and not one of his formulae has 

 been altered. The difficulty and danger attending these manipula- 

 tions with spontaneously inflammable, highly poisonous and volatile 

 bodies, are quite unparalleled, and enhance our admiration of the 

 singular perseverance with which the subject was followed out into 

 its most minute ramifications. The importance of the results, and 

 the value of the influence which they have exerted on the develop- 

 ment of sound views in organic chemistry can scarcely be over-esti- 

 mated. The most important investigations in subsequent years 

 have been mainly applications of the theory of organic radicals to 

 new bodies, or extensions of its use in cases in which it had been 

 already applied. 



Another most important service to science, was Professor Bunsen' s 

 invention of a simple and effective apparatus for analysing gases, 

 with an accuracy previously unattained. His researches on this 

 head may justly entitle him to be regarded as the founder of accu- 

 rate gas- analysis, a branch of quantitative analysis which now far 

 excels all others in the perfection of its results. 



His researches on the gases evolved from blast-furnaces consuming 

 charcoal, coke and coal (the latter made in conjunction with Dr. 

 Playfair), are models of experimental and analytical skill, and have 

 led to important applications of the waste gases of such furnaces to 

 useful purposes. 



Professor Bunsen' s researches on the volcanic phenomena of Ice- 

 land, besides being valuable contributions to mineral chemistry, 

 exhibit a masterly application of chemistry and physics to geological 

 phenomena. 



It is proper to remark that the important researches in which 

 Professor Bunsen is now engaged with Professor Kirchhoff, not being 

 yet complete, do not form any part of the grounds on which the 

 Medal has been awarded. 



PROFESSOR MILLER, 

 In transmitting this Medal to Professor Bunsen, you will not fail 



