54 On Subdivision by Trituration and Solution. 
the ordinary tests. As the examination of any known mode of 
testing the power of such preparations would involve physical 
and professional considerations, [ shall do nothing more than sub- 
mit the mechanical explanation of the comminuting process to. 
the consideration of natural philosophers, trusting that they will 
consider the subject interesting asa branch of physical investi- 
gation. 
Similar principles are applicable to subdivision by solution. 
It is generally believed, that the simple solution of a substance 
+ ee the minutest division of it which 7 terns nce In call- 
in question the correctness of this notion, | am aware of the 
siecnteti of the prejudices to be wncuitpensdladaeded ibe both of 
the senses and intellect. For deciding such a point, there is no 
adequate delicacy in human vision nor in the instruments of 
physical research; nor is the human mind so constituted, as to 
be capable of any ‘adequate conception of the minuteness of ulti- 
mate atoms, or of the iotnie diversity of magnitude existing 
among infinitesimals. 
The following are the views which I take of solution, and 
which I am desirous of submitting to the consideration of natu- 
ral philosophers. In a saturated aqueous solution of any salt, I 
saree the molecules of the salt as existing in hard solid groups 
masses of the salt, suspended at equal distances in the water, 
which exceeds the salt in quantity. Hach mass of salt consists 
of innumerable particles. It is impossible to make these groups 
smaller, either by the affinity of the water or by any mechanical 
orece, as long as the quantity of water remains the same. If 
they were sundered, they would instantly reunite. For, an 
division of the solids into smaller groups would diminish their 
mutual distance, and pg increase their mutual attrac- 
tion; whilst the quantity of water which surrounds each mass 
is dimipished in quantity, and onl possesses less attractive force 
for resisting the reunion of the solids, than it had when they 
were in larger masses; even then this affinity was but just suffi- 
cient to keep them separate. Therefore any division would be 
followed by instantaneous reunion, both on account of an increase 
in the cohesive forces, and a diminution of affinity. The ultimate 
molecules are not separately invested with the water, but uni 
in hard and complex masses, which cannot remain 
’ within a given mutual distance. 
“ can this limitation be obviated, and the size of. ches 
complex molecules be progressively and indefinitely diminished ? 
This\ may be effected by successive dilutions. select the 
same pi LLL ‘ 
- solut ps of water. This 
water pots affinity as an antagonist to af cohesion of the 
solid groups of salt, and effects their dismemberment to a far 
