Spherical vapor and atmospheric space give but a faint idea of its
range. We find it a leading science in Physics, and having intimate
relations with heat, light, electricity, magnetism, winds, water,
vegetation, geological changes, optical effects, pneumatics,
geography,--and with climate, controlling the pursuits and
affecting the character of the human race. It is so intimately
blended, indeed, with the other matters here named, as scarcely to
have any positive boundary of its own; and its vista seems ever
lengthening, as we proceed.

Without dwelling upon the numerous consequences which flow from
meteorological influences, let us see what is properly included under
the subject of Meteorology. And first, of the Atmosphere.

This is a gaseous, vapor-bearing, elastic fluid, surrounding the
earth. Its volume is estimated at 1/29th, and its weight at about
43/1000ths, that of the globe. It is composed of 21 parts in weight
of Oxygen and 77 of Nitrogen, with a little Carbonic Acid,
Aqueous Vapor, and a trace of Carburetted Hydrogen. There are
numerous well-known calculations of the proportions of the various
constituents of the atmosphere, which we owe to Priestley, Dalton,
Black, Cavendish, Liebig, and others; but that given by Professor
Ansted is sufficiently simple and intelligible. In 10 volumes or
parts of it, he gives to

Oxygen, the great supporter of life 2.100
Nitrogen, (not condensible under 50
atmospheres, and not respirable or
combustible,) 7.750
Aqueous Vapor .l42