LAVOISIER 9 



Lavoisier was the first to attempt the ultimate analysis 

 of organic compounds, by burning these bodies in a stream 

 of oxygen, and collecting the water and carbonic acid 

 produced. This work is of historical interest as being the 

 last performed by the illustrious savant, and just before 

 execution. 



But his ultimate right to fame rests on his interpre- 

 tation of the phenomenon of combustion that it is not 

 a decomposition but a combination ; the indestructi- 

 bility of matter (conservation of mass) ; his philosophical 

 deductions of the work of others ; the introduction of the 

 balance into all chemical operations ; the recognition as 

 elements of those bodies only which yield but one kind 

 of matter ; the formation of compounds from elements ; 

 his system of nomenclature ; and, finally, his work (in 

 conjunction with Laplace) on specific heats. Surely a 

 goodly list, and sufficient to make his name immortal in 

 the history of chemistry. 



His energy knew no bounds, and at an early age, twenty- 

 five, he became zfermier general under the Government, 

 and had the right, with others, of collecting the indirect 

 taxes throughout France ; a and this position during the 



1 Since the time of King Philip VI. of Valois (1328-50), the kings 

 of France allowed the taxes to be farmed ; and for this privilege those 

 appointed had to pay the king certain sums of money. They recouped 

 themselves by the money collected. Many fermiers generaux became 

 rich, and in consequence were obnoxious to the poor. The nobles and 

 clergy were exempted from taxation. 



