Chemistry and Physics. | A15 
between his own results and those of Awdejew, and considers therefore 
the equivalent of the metal 86°50—taking glucina as G2Os, or 57°68 
taking glucina as GO.—Pogg. Ann., xcii, 91. Ww. G. 
5. On a new Test for Zirconia; by G. J. Brusn, (J. f. pr. Chem., 
Ixii, 7, 1854.)—In a recent examination of some American minerals, 
one of them regarded as rutile was decomposed by fusion with caustic 
potash, the fused mass dissolved in diluted hydrochloric acid, and the 
examin 
Ceylon, the Ural and New York, Eudialyte, Wohlerite and Catapleiite, 
c 
the paper became orange-red. The presence of boracie acid wholly 
disguises that of zirconia. A known zirconia compound (a hydrate) 
was dissolved in hydrochloric acid and diluted with 3000 parts of water, 
The solution gave the deep orange-red color of zirconia; with 2000 
parts more of water, the action was still distinct. 
It appears therefore that turmeric paper is a simple and characteristic 
test of the presence of zirconia in an acid solution, when i i 
1S not present; if the solution is a very weak dne, the paper should be 
left in it from half to one minute. It is to be observed that the solu- 
tion should not be so acid that the acid itself will act on the paper and 
discolor it. 
6. On the Electricity of the Atmosphere; by M. L. Patient, 
(Bib. Univ. Genéve, xxvi, 1854, 105.)—M. Palmieri shows that the 
method of ascertaining the electrical condition of the atmosphere b 
show indications when none is perceived with the former; and is also 
itself uncertain from difficulties of manipulating or the influence of 
the observer. M. Palmieri proposes therefore a new method by means 
of a moveable conductor; it is in use under the direction of the king of 
Naples at the Meteorological Observatory of Vesuvius at a height of 
metres above the sea-level. The conductor extends above the 
roof of the building, and is arranged so as to be raised or depressed 
&t will; its connections are of a nature to insulate it; and in the room 
y, it connects with an electroscope or other instruments as desired. 
