Thermodynamic description of the Pb-O system

The phase relations and thermodynamic properties of the Pb-O system are reviewed and assessed. The transformation temperature between PbO and Pb3O4 was also experimentally reinvestigated. A model description of the Pb-O system is then proposed and thermodynamic parameters are optimized. The values calculated from the resulting consistent set of Gibbs energy functions are compared with experimental data and discussed

Trying to resolve the two-envelope problem

After explaining the well-known two-envelope 'paradox' by indicating the fallacy involved, we consider the two-envelope 'problem' of evaluating the 'factual' information provided to us in the form of the value contained by the envelope chosen first. We try to provide a synthesis of contributions from economy, psychology, logic, probability theory (in the form of Bayesian statistics), mathematical statistics (in the form of a decision-theoretic approach) and game theory. We conclude that the two-envelope problem does not allow a satisfactory solution. An interpretation is made for statistical science at large.