On the absorption of gases by charcoal. —No. I

Abstract

The following is a summary of the author’s observations:— 1. Charcoal absorbs oxygen go as to separate it from common air, or from its mixtures with hydrogen and nitrogen, at common temperatures. 2. Charcoal continues the absorption of oxygen for at least a month, although the chief amount is absorbed in a few hours, sometimes in a few seconds, according to the quality of the charcoal.