TRANSACTIONS OF SECTION B. 531 
The two possible formule for saponarin are: 
C,,H..0,, requiring C = 53°52, H = 5:21, M = 426 
Ca), OC = oe do, FE = 6:15, M468 
Of these, the second is considered the more probable, but a definite choice can- 
not be made till the decomposition products of the substance have been studied 
more fully. On boiling saponarin with mineral acids it is hydrolysed, and a 
yellow solution is formed, from which glucose was separated as phenyl gluco- 
sazone. Unless the solution be dilute, a second product of hydrolysis separates as a 
thick yellow oil, which has not yet been obtained crystalline. The name saponaretin 
is suggested for it, and it isscarcely soluble in water, but dissolves in alkalies and in 
pyridine ; it closely resembles the parent substance, but does not give the reaction 
with iodine. From dilute solutions saponaretin separates in the solid state, either 
amorphous or in the form of imperfect whetstone-shaped crystals. It has not yet 
been obtained quite pure, but seems to be mixed with another substance which 
crystallises from alcohol in glistening plates. 
The formula of the latter substance has not been definitely fixed owing to 
want of material, but it seems to be a hydrate of saponaretin. 
Saponaretin is in all probability closely allied to the flavones. When fused 
with potash it yields p-oxybenzoic acid, and a red solution which gives the 
phloroglucin reaction with pinewood. Phloroglucin itself could, however, not 
be isolated. 
The blue substance formed from iodine and saponarin exhibits a close analogy 
with that formed from iodine and starch. Its composition varies considerably, 
and it is another example of the absorption of iodine by a substance in pseudo- 
solution, The blue substance has been obtained in the crystalline state, but must 
nevertheless be regarded as a mixture and not as a chemical compound. 
10, The Vapour Density of Hydrazine Hydrate. 
By Dr. A. Scort, FBS. 
11. The Combining Volumes of Carbon Monouide and Oxygen. 
By Dr. A. Scorr, LBS. 
12. The Action of Heat on Oxalates. By Dr. A. Scorr, F.RS, 
13. Some Alkyl Derivatives of Sulphur, Selenium, and V'ellurion. 
By Dr. A. Scort, RS. 
14. On the Presence of Arsenic in the Body and its Secretion by the 
Kidneys. By W. Tuomson, RSE. 
15. On New Low-temperature Phenomena and their Scientific 
Applications. By Professor Sir Jamus Dewar, JR. 
MM? 
