The proximate natural causes of it [the deluge]. --T.
Burnet.
{Proximate analysis} (Chem.), an analysis which determines
the proximate principles of any substance, as contrasted
with an ultimate analysis.
{Proximate cause}.
(a) A cause which immediately precedes and produces the
effect, as distinguished from the remote, mediate, or
predisposing cause. --I. Watts.
(b) That which in ordinary natural sequence produces a
specific result, no independent disturbing agencies
intervening.
{Proximate principle} (Physiol. Chem.), one of a class of
bodies existing ready formed in animal and vegetable
tissues, and separable by chemical analysis, as albumin,
sugar, collagen, fat, etc.
Syn: Nearest; next; closest; immediate; direct.
2. (Chem.) The separation of a compound substance, by
chemical processes, into its constituents, with a view to
ascertain either (a) what elements it contains, or (b) how
much of each element is present. The former is called
{qualitative}, and the latter {quantitative analysis}.
3. (Logic) The tracing of things to their source, and the
resolving of knowledge into its original principles.
4. (Math.) The resolving of problems by reducing the
conditions that are in them to equations.
5.
(a) A syllabus, or table of the principal heads of a
discourse, disposed in their natural order.
(b) A brief, methodical illustration of the principles of
a science. In this sense it is nearly synonymous with
synopsis.
6. (Nat. Hist.) The process of ascertaining the name of a
species, or its place in a system of classification, by
means of an analytical table or key.
{Ultimate}, {Proximate}, {Qualitative}, {Quantitative}, and
{Volumetric analysis}. (Chem.) See under {Ultimate},
{Proximate}, {Qualitative}, etc.