--Brande.
Why do heated sea-sand and soda form glass?
Because, by heating the mixture, the cohesion of the particles of each
substance to those of its own kind is so diminished, that the mutual
attractions of the two substances come into play, melt together, and
unite chemically into the beautiful compound called glass.
Why is sand used in glass?
Because it serves for stone; it being said, that all white transparent
stones which will not burn to lime are fit to make glass.
Electricity.
Why is an arrangement of several Leyden jars called an electrical
battery?
Because by a communication existing between all their interior coatings,
their exterior being also united, they may be charged and discharged as
one jar.
The discharge of the battery is attended by a considerable report, and if
it be passed through small animals, it instantly kills them; if through
fine metallic wires, they are ignited, melted, and burned; and gunpowder,
cotton sprinkled with powdered resin, and a variety of other combustibles,
may be inflamed by the same means.
Why is the fireside an unsafe place in a thunder-storm?
Because the carbonaceous matter, or soot, with which the chimney is
lined, acts as a conductor for the lightning.
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