Leçons de Chimie Physique

Abstract

THIS book is a translation of van 't Hoffs “Vor-lesungen über theoretische und physikalische Chemie,” based on lectures delivered in the University of Berlin during the winter session 1896–97, and as a clear and terse exposition of the principles of physical chemistry cannot be too highly commended. The treatment of the subject adopted by the author presupposes a considerable knowledge of chemistry and physics, as well as an elementary acquaintance with the differential and integral calculus. The first instalment, here under review, is entitled “Chemical Dynamics,” and will be followed by other parts dealing with chemical statics, and the relation between properties and chemical composition. The distinction made by the author between chemical dynamics and chemical statics is similar to that adopted by Lothar Meyer. Under chemical statics he proposes to deal with theories of the structure of matter, the conceptions of atom and molecule, and the determination of constitution and configuration. Under chemical dynamics he here discusses chemical change, affinity, velocity of reaction, and chemical equilibrium.

Leçons de Chimie Physique.

Par J. H. van 't Hoff. Ouvrage traduit de l'allemand par M. Corvisy. Pp. 263. (Paris: Hermann, 1898.)