CARBONIC ACID GAS IN WINE OR BEER VESSELS.
The apparently empty or upper part of vessels in which wine or beer is working, is filled with this deleterious gas; for its great weight prevents its ascent from the fermenting liquid. A variety of striking but simple experiments may be made with the gas in this condition. Lighted paper, or a candle dipped into it, will be immediately extinguished; and the smoke remaining in the carbonic acid gas will render its surface visible, which may be thrown into waves by agitation, like water. In consequence of the great weight of the carbonic acid gas, it may be taken from a vat of fermenting liquor, in a jug or bottle, and in the latter, if well corked, it may be conveyed to great distances; or the gas may be drawn out of a vessel by a cock, like a liquid.