History of Chemistry, Volume 1 (of 2) From the earliest time to the middle of the nineteenth century
CHAPTER VII
PHLOGISTONISM 91
Becher’s hypothesis of the _Terra Pinguis_. Its development into the theory of phlogiston. Stahl. Phlogiston, primarily a theory of combustion, becomes a theory of chemistry. Its general acceptance in Europe until the last quarter of the eighteenth century. Prominent phlogistians. Pott. Marggraf. Scheele: his discoveries. Duhamel. Macquer. Black: his essay on _Magnesia Alba_. Recognition of the individuality of carbon dioxide. Priestley: his life and character. His discoveries in pneumatic chemistry. His observations on the influence of vegetable life on the character of the atmosphere. Cavendish: his life and work. Discovery of composition of water. Influence of phlogistonism on the development of chemistry. Advances made during the period of phlogistonism.