INTRODUCTION TO SOCIOLOGY 6l$
X
satisfy the law that : the ratio - is in simple relationship with
X
r and , so that = m = n , m and n being whole num- bers or simple fractions like I, 2, . . . *^, ^.
Whence results this form, these numerical limits? They are the product of two factors : first, the internal formative force inherent in the physical and chemical constitution of the matter itself ; second, the external formative force which is the expression of the influence of the surrounding matter. The concurrence of these two forces, their reciprocal relations, determine the form and the volume of inorganic bodies, their composition and their decomposition, their actions and their reactions. The equilibra- tion of these forces is the consequence of the relationship which exists between the structure of the bodies thus limited and the environment.
Physics and chemistry show us in a general way that the solid, liquid, and gaseous substances which compose the terrestrial globe are not indiscriminately mingled : the rocks, the liquids, the gases occupy definite, limited spaces. They show a certain order in their static disposition ; this order and these limits are the conditions of their equilibrium.
Thus, just as our solar system gravitates around an unknown center, and just as in our system the planets gravitate around the sun, we also see all the bodies upon the earth equilibrated about its center by gravitation, and all the molecules of inorganic aggregates equilibrated differently among themselves, according to their different conditions, under the name of molecular attraction. In the same way, also, all the chemical modifications are the result of molecular equilibrations determined and limited by reciprocal relationships. Thus, the general law of limitation appears to us as inseparable from the very conception of aggre- gate or mass.
Chemistry, by showing us atomical and molecular equilibra- tions of greater and greater complexity, prepares us for the consideration of a new aspect of statics. The law of definite proportions, and that of multiple proportions, are examples of chemical limits. Indeed, it will remain with us to see whether
