Molecular inference via unidirectional chemical reactions.

Inference process plays an important role in the realisation of expert systems. In this paper it is shown that chemical reactions may by used to perform molecular inference according to the algorithm of forward chaining. This method is accomplished by an adequate interpretation of inorganic chemical compounds and unidirectional reactions. In our approach premise clauses are represented by the reactants while conclusion clauses are represented by the products of reaction. Different inorganic compounds and reactions have been discussed with respect to their utility for the molecular inference. Special attention is focused on qualitative chemistry and a number of reactions has been taken into account. Experimental results demonstrating application of these reactions in expert systems are provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]