Affinity Quote by Jons Jacob Berzelius
“This new force, which was unknown until now, is common to organic and inorganic nature. I do not believe that this is a force entirely independent of the electrochemical affinities of matter; I believe, on the contrary, that it is only a new manifestation, but since we cannot see their connection and mutual dependence, it will be easier to designate it by a separate name. I will call this force catalytic force. Similarly, I will call the decomposition of bodies by this force catalysis, as one designates the decomposition of bodies by chemical affinity analysis.”
About This Quote
Source Letter: Scientific Correspondence, 1825, Jöns Jacob Berzelius
A newly identified force, called catalytic force, underlies both organic and inorganic processes, linked to electrochemical affinities.
In simple terms: A new force connects chemistry and biology.
Explore the role of catalysis in reactions.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- laboratory experiments
- industrial processes
- environmental remediation
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What evidence supports this force?
- How does it differ from known forces?
The concept may oversimplify complex interactions.