10 Facts About Phlogiston

Phlogiston theory is a superseded scientific theory that postulated the existence of a fire-like element called phlogiston contained within combustible bodies and released during combustion.

Phlogiston theory attempted to explain chemical processes such as combustion and rusting, now collectively known as oxidation.

Phlogiston theory led to experiments which ultimately concluded with the discovery of oxygen.

Phlogiston was a definite substance, the same in all its combinations.

Phlogiston's most quoted definition was found in the treatise on chemistry entitled in 1723.

Phlogiston did not account for the increase in weight on combustion of tin and lead that were known at the time.

Phlogiston compared phlogiston to light or fire, saying that all three were substances whose natures were widely understood but not easily defined.

Phlogiston permeating everything in the universe, it could be released as heat when combined with acid.

Phlogiston showed that air was needed for combustion by putting substances in a sealed flask and trying to burn them.

Phlogiston remained the dominant theory until the 1770s when Antoine-Laurent de Lavoisier showed that combustion requires a gas that has weight and could be measured by means of weighing closed vessels.