404 Scientific Intelligence. 
This observation suggested to the author that formic acid might be pro- 
duced easily and abundantly by making carbonic oxyd unite with water 
at the instant of its formation, As oxalic acid is decomposed by heating 
into carbonic acid, carbonic oxyd and water, it occurred to Berthelot that 
by heating this acid with some substance which should act by contact, 
the water and carbonic oxyd would unite to produce formic acid. Glyc- 
erin was found to answer the purpose perfectly. The author introduces 
into a retort of 2 litres capacity, 1 kilogram of syrupy glycerin, 1 kilo- 
am of commercial oxalic acid, and 100-200 grammes of water. 
receiver is to be attached and the retort heated. gently to 100° C.: car- 
nic acid is given off, and after from twelve to fifteen hours all the oxalic 
acid is decomposed, while a little weak formic acid has passed over. Half 
a liter of water is to be added to the matter in the retort and the whole 
to which he applies it. We would also suggest that the practice of com- 
i mt ah with theory 
age obtained should be stated. 
xovii, 885, xcix, 197, 
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Re Ooo ee cs 
