The answers of the alchemists on the questions, how and why matter changes, are influenced by the Aristotelian doctrine according to which even elements are alterable into each other, since they are created from the same prime matter. The alchemists search endlessly for a Philosopher’s Stone, a panacea that can also transmute base metals to precious metals.

In contrast, modern chemistry in the 19th century is based on the assumption of unalterable elements. Alchemy, despite its practical results, is discredited as superstition. Chemistry denies its provenance.