Eudiometer, Europe, 1770-1900

Made:
1770-1900 in Europe
Left hand side: 1984-1261/1, Eudiometer

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Left hand side: 1984-1261/1, Eudiometer
Science Museum Group Collection
© The Board of Trustees of the Science Museum

Eudiometer, one of three of different designs, said to have been used by M. Berthelot

A eudiometer is designed to test the oxygen content of the air and is used today in chemistry. Atmospheric air and hydrogen are exploded over water by an electric spark and the rise in the water in the tube gives an indication to the amount of oxygen present. Eudiometers were taken across Europe by tour organisers looking for the best places for health resorts. Disease was thought to be caused by bad air and foul smells as a result of rotten rubbish, human waste and stagnant water. So clean air was considered essential in treating and preventing illness. The eudiometer is photographed with another one of similar design (1984-1261/1).

Details

Category:
Experimental Chemistry
Collection:
Sir Henry Wellcome's Museum Collection
Object Number:
1984-1261/2
Materials:
glass
Measurements:
overall: 260 mm 52 mm, 1.07kg
type:
eudiometer
credit:
On loan from the Wellcome Trust