Yes; but the carbonic is the last of all the acids in the order of affinities; it will therefore yield the magnesia to any of the others. It is, however, frequently taken in its caustic state as a remedy for flatulence. Combined with sulphuric acid, magnesia forms another and more powerful medicine, commonly called Epsom salt.
CAROLINE.
And properly, sulphat of magnesia, I suppose? Pray why was it ever called Epsom salt?
MRS. B.
Because there is a spring in the neighbourhood of Epsom which contains this salt in great abundance.
The last alkaline earth which we have to mention is STRONTIAN, or STRONTITES, discovered by Dr. Hope a few years ago. It so strongly resembles barytes in its properties, and is so sparingly found in nature, and of so little use in the arts, that it will not be necessary to enter into any particulars respecting it. One of the remarkable characteristic properties of strontites is, that its salts, when dissolved in spirit of wine, tinge the flame of a deep red, or blood colour.
[CONVERSATION XVI.]
ON ACIDS.
MRS. B.
We may now proceed to the acids. Of the metallic oxyds, you have already acquired some general notions. This subject, though highly interesting in its details, is not of sufficient importance to our concise view of chemistry, to be particularly treated of; but it is absolutely necessary that you should be better acquainted with the acids, and likewise with their combinations with the alkalies, which form the triple compounds called NEUTRAL SALTS.