The Wonderful and the Useful: the Experiments in Samuel Parkes' Chemical Catechism

Abstract

This article aims to present an overview of the experiments contained in Samuel Parkes’ book, Chemical Catechism. In a context of great interest towards science in Britain, many popular chemistry books were published in the early 19th century. Among them, Chemical Catechism was a highly successful work, receiving several editions and translations into other languages. Its chemical content is presented in the form of short questions and answers, complemented by extensive footnotes that serve various purposes. One of these purposes was to guide the tutor in conducting demonstrations and experiments for the pupils, and to convince them of the practical nature of science. The experiments could have sensory, scientific, or industrial appeal, or could be integrated into discussions about theoretical aspects of chemistry. Analysis of the experiments reveals some of Parkes’ conceptions about chemistry and its popularization. Once the pupils’ attention had been captured by the experiments with great sensory appeal, the presentation of theoretical explanations would lead to an understanding of how chemists work and how chemistry could be useful for personal prosperity and the benefit of the nation.

Keywords

• Samuel Parkes
• Chemical Catechism
• 19th-century chemistry
• popularization of chemistry
• chemical experiments