A Fourth State of Matter

MR. CROOKES has given us optical evidence of the existence of matter in a state of tenuity known hitherto only indirectly, and considers himself warranted in affirming the discovery of a fourth or ultra-gaseous condition; yet it can scarcely be conceded that he has demonstrated the truth of his views, or that his recent exposition of them, has strengthened his position or satisfied the doubts of the sceptical. It is simply a question of the use or misuse of certain specific terms, and it is difficult to follow the logic which justifies the creation of a “fourth state” by the attribution of properties not differing essentially from those of matter in its normal condition. Before his contention be granted it should be proved that the substance under experiment possesses properties exclusively and inalienably its own; as rigidly defined as those which distinguish the solid from the liquid, or the latter from the gaseous.