Historical demonstration experiments in Analytical Chemistry

Abstract

Some examples of the use of lecture demonstration throughout the early history of chemistry are presented with examples chosen from Analytical Chemistry. In order to limit this vast subject, mainly Scandinavian sources have been used. This is rather natural as the early history of Analytical Chemistry is so much dominated by the works of the Swedish chemist Torbern Bergman. An interesting source at early lecture experiments are the books on natural magic, which were very popular in the 17 th and 18 th centuries. These books contain recipes for household remedies mingled with scientific observations. From the 18 th century most of the examples have been taken from Torbern Bergman’s works.