________________
Pattison Mur on the point inques.
tion
it is apparent, to the numerical vifturences in the combination of the componentitoms constituting the structure of a molecule of each of them. But is the numerical litterences in the combination adequate to explain the causes of differences in question? The molecule of Anmonium of Cyanate is composed of two atoms of Nitrogen, one atomi of Oxygen, one atom of Carbon, and four atoms of Hydrogen ; and the molecule of Urea is compo ed of the same number of the same atoms. How, then, can the properties of the two molecules be different from one another ? “What can that circum. stance be", rightly enquires Pattison Muir in answer to the above question. "except the arrangement of the atoms that compose the molecules?"
But the answer of Pattison Muir given in the form of interrogation, will it satisfy the reflecting mind yearning for a rational solution for the differences in question in things we everyday find around us ? To say that the difference is due to the difference in the arrangement of atonis forming the composition of the two molecules is to
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