512 On the two great powers, [Ocr. 
lst. Whether the repulsion from heat varies in a less inverse ratio 
of the distance than the attraction between the atoms of the bodies it 
pervades. 
If this be admitted with respect to the law of repulsion, since at- 
traction varies inversely as the square of the distance, let the repul- 
sive force vary inversely as the distance. And since these two forces 
must be in equilibrio in any solid whose atoms are at rest, let the 
following represent the forces operating between any two atoms, A 
and B, at various distances; and let the atoms be placed at any dis- 
tance 3, at which point the forces must therefore be in equilibrio. 
Distances. 1 2 3 4 5 &e. 
Repulsion, 96: 48: 32: 24: 19,2: &c. 
A B 
Attraction, 288: 72: 32: 18: 11,5: &c. 
Here it is plain, that at distance 3 these atoms can be stationary ; 
but if by the slightest force or agitation they are made to approach 
each other in the smallest degree, as their mutual attraction becomes 
stronger than the repulsive force, and increases as they approach in a 
higher ratio, it is manifest, that A and B will come together, and 
remain in absolute contact. 
Again, if A and B are separated in any degree beyond distance 
3, they will instantly lose their adhesion, as now the attraction loses 
force in a greater ratio than the repulsion. 
This law would in fact constitute what is called in mechanics an 
unstable equilibrium ; and hence atoms of matter would soon be either 
in absolute contact or at infinite distances from each other. 
Yet, however, in one of the ablest systems of chemical philosophy, 
which has ever appeared, we find the following passage; ‘‘ From the 
very abrupt transition of steam, from a volume of 1700 to that of 1, 
without any material increase of pressure, one would be inclined to 
think, that the condensation of it was owing to the breaking of a 
spring rather than to the curbing of one.” ‘The last however, ”’ says. 
the author, ‘‘ is the fact. The condensation arises from the action of 
affinity becoming superior to that of heat, by which the latter is over- 
ruled, but not weakened. 
«As the approximation of the particles takes place, their repulsion 
increases from the condensation of the heat, but their affinity in- 
creases, it should seem, ina still greater ratio, till the approxima- 
tion has attained a certain degree, when an equilibrium between those 
two powers takes place, and the liquid water is the result*.” 
* Datron’s New System of Chemical Philosophy, Part Ist, page 149. 
