Archives: 2011 May 22

Are Chemical Equations Linguistic Semiosis?

May 22

CH₄ + 2 O₂ $\rightarrow$ CO₂ + 2 H₂O

(one molecule of) methane and (two molecules of) oxygen yields (one molecule of) carbon dioxide and (two molecules of) water.

This is a causal circumstantial identifying relational clause.

The Token and Value are both realised by nominal group complexes in each of which the relation between the nominal groups is paratactic extension.

(i.e. yes)

May 22

Each mathematical equation is an intensive identifying clause.

The entire derivation is a clause complex of paratactic elaboration.

The solution of a derivation is a decoding identifying clause

in which the unknown (x) functions as a Token identified by a mathematical Value.

(i.e. yes)