Physical Amusements and Diverting Experiments / Composed and Performed in Different Capitals of Europe, and in London

Chapter 35: CHAP. XXV.

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About This Book

A collection of practical, theatrical experiments and demonstrations designed to amuse and astonish audiences, presenting clear, step-by-step instructions for optical illusions, chemical colour changes, simple mechanical contrivances, engraved relief work, and staged effects involving small animals and household materials. Each chapter explains the method of execution and the observable result, often noting how presentation and concealment enhance surprise. The work aims to enable performers and curious amateurs to reproduce entertaining physical phenomena with modest apparatus, while distinguishing easily executed tricks from those that require greater dexterity, mechanism, or preparation.

CHAP. XXV.

To melt a Piece of Steel as if it was Lead, without requiring a very great Fire.

Take a piece of steel and put it in a crucible; then throw in a handful of antimony in powder: as soon as your crucible begins to be red, your piece of steel will melt like lead.

Pour it afterwards into an earthen vessel, or a wedge-mould, to shew the company your operation has succeeded as you had promised.

Another Method of melting Steel, and to see it liquify.

Make a piece of steel quite red in the fire; then holding it with a pair of pincers or tongs, take in the other hand a stick of brimstone, and touch the piece of steel with it: immediately after their contact, you will see the steel melt and drop like a liquid.