Alchemist
Alchemist
Alchemist (pronunciation: al-kə-mist) is a term derived from the Arabic word "al-kīmiyā" (الكيمياء), which is itself derived from the Greek word "chēmeía" (χημεία), meaning "a process of transmutation".
An Alchemist is a person who practices Alchemy, an ancient branch of natural philosophy. Alchemy is a philosophical and protoscientific tradition that aimed to purify, mature, and perfect certain objects. The primary objective of alchemy is the creation of the Philosopher's Stone, a legendary substance with the ability to turn base metals into noble metals such as gold or silver.
Alchemists also aimed to discover a universal panacea, a remedy that would cure all diseases and prolong life indefinitely. This pursuit is known as the Elixir of Life. Alchemy is considered a precursor to modern chemistry, with alchemists' experiments and theories contributing significantly to the scientific field.
Related Terms
- Alchemy: The ancient practice that alchemists follow, which combines elements of chemistry, metallurgy, physics, medicine, astrology, semiotics, mysticism, spiritualism, and art.
- Philosopher's Stone: A legendary substance in alchemy, said to be capable of turning base metals into gold or silver and of giving humans eternal life.
- Elixir of Life: A mythical potion, or drink, sought by alchemists, believed to cure all diseases, grant extended life and maintain perpetual youth.
- Chemistry: The branch of science that deals with the identification of the substances of which matter is composed; the investigation of their properties and the ways in which they interact, combine, and change; and the use of these processes to form new substances.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Alchemist
- Wikipedia's article - Alchemist
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