Introduction and Nomenclature

Abstract

The initial proof of the existence of very large organic molecules was supplied by Raoult [1] and van’t Hoff [2], who carried out cryoscopic molecular weight determinations on rubber, starch, and cellulose nitrate. By the methods developed by Raoult and by van’t Hoff and by the formulation of solution laws, molecular weights of 10,000–40,000 were demonstrated. Unfortunately, chemists of that day failed to appreciate this evidence and refused to accept it. The main reason for such a response was the inability to distinguish macromolecules from colloidal substances that could be obtained in low molecular weights. The opinion of the majority of that day was that “Raoul’s solution does not apply to materials in colloidal state.”