102 NITROGEN IN AGGREGATION 



the poles appropriate to radiant combination), the more difficult 

 the re-solution of matter, whether in the solid or fluid state, 

 the general agent is heat or caloric, another term for a condi- 

 tion of light (as here presumed) , by which the fixed bodies 

 are first expanded, their original constituents liberated from 

 the bonds of attraction, and they are prepared for new changes. 

 Even those solid bodies termed inflammable, require conver- 

 sion to the gaseous state to constitute their perfect combustion 

 and re-solution to the radiant state ; and combustion is but the 

 exercise of natural Voltaic electricity operating a continuous 

 change of matter from one state to another. 



Inflammable bodies are usually ternary compounds, contain- 

 ing two original, and one compound constituent oxygen 

 and hydrogen with carbon but they are not unfrequently 

 quaternary, having portions of nitrogen, and there are instances 

 in which that element forms the chief component part in union 

 with one or more of the others. 



Azote or nitrogen has been hitherto denominated the only 

 simple incombustible substance in existence; it may require 

 some explanation for giving it a place among bodies acknow- 

 ledged to possess opposite qualities. 



Nitrogen constitutes nearly four-jifths of our atmosphere ; 

 and when we contemplate the duties it performs in obedience 

 to the Divine Power, we must acknowledge and admire its 

 aptitude for the purposes it is destined to fulfil. 



It appears to be the selected barrier opposed to the sudden 

 transition of matter from one state to the other, operating as a 

 moderator in combustion as well as respiration. 



It effectually corrects the energies of combination, which, if 

 unrestrained by its immense and merciful agency, would en- 

 danger the safety of this habitable globe, and render man sub- 

 ject to immediate destruction from the first accidental convul- 

 sion arising from a change in the existing state of matter, at 

 once instantaneous, unbounded, and overwhelming. 



