A New System of Chemical Philosophy, Volume 2, Part 1

A scientific publication written in the early 19th century. This work marks Dalton's significant contribution to the field of chemistry, where he explores the nature of chemical compounds, particularly focusing on metallic oxides and the relationship between metals and oxygen. The text embodies foundational hypotheses in atomic theory and chemical reaction principles that emerged during this formative period in scientific inquiry. The opening of this volume begins with a preface that outlines the lengthy process of its publication, starting from 1817 to its completion in 1827. Dalton discusses his methods for investigating compounds such as oxides, detailing specific experiments and techniques for determining the proportions of elements within these compounds. He emphasizes the challenges faced in accurately identifying the weights and relationships of metals and oxygen, employing a methodical approach to provide a clearer understanding of chemical interactions. Dalton's meticulous reporting of experiments reflects a dedication to empirical observation, making this work a crucial reference for scholars seeking to comprehend early chemical principles and atomic structure.