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Jaina Theory of Atoms : 237
so either partially or totally with molecules leading to physical changes also. The total combination may be caused due to natural or external causes like presence of catalysts and other physical factors.
The real cause of total combination is the electrical nature of atoms. It is of two types. Satkhandāgama (Varganā Section )43, Kundakunda, Umāsvāti and later scholars have given four basic rules for atomic combinations. They are given in a co-ordinated form as there seems to be some difference between various versions :
(a) The atomic combination takes place between the atoms of opposite electrical nature. The natures are quantitative as well as qualitative. The electrical charges are always in integral number.
(b) However, no combination can occur between atoms with lowest level electrical nature, i. e. O or 1. In early period, zero was not taken as a number, it seems. But, if the charge of one of the atoms is differing, the combination may occur (i. e., inert gas compounds of today).
(c) Under some circumstances, the atoms with quantitatively similar nature can also combine. Atoms having quantitatively similar but opposite nature can also combine. The formation of hydrogen molecule and sodium hydride are the current examples :
H + H = H, :: C+ + 4H+ = CH, Nat + H = NaH
This rule is given here in positive rather than negative form following Amritcandra Sūri44. The earlier scholars did not take it that way and have to face large number of problems leaving them unexplained. Those who equate Jaina atom with electrons or positrons, are also not in a position to explain the formation of heavy electron or proton on the basis of negation of this type of bond. Firstly, these combinations require huge amount of energy not commonly available. Secondly, they have
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