For the DVD volume, see Volume 3: Equivalent Exchange. There are many paths by which alchemists can transmute the various substances of the world, with some alchemists being said to transmute by way of the Four Classical Elements (Water, Earth, Fire, and Air) and some by way of the Three Essential Principles (salt, sulfur, and mercury), but the basic tenet at the very foundation of all alchemy is that of Equivalent Exchange.Įquivalent Exchange This article is about the law in alchemy. Those remarkable individuals capable of studying and practicing alchemy are known as ' Alchemists'.Īlchemy is connected to The Gate, as demonstrated when Ed traded his individual Gate for Al, losing his ability to practice alchemy in the process. The proper application of this craft requires not only a full understanding of chemistry and ancient alchemical theory, but also a sort of natural talent towards recognizing and manipulating the physical objects with energy, which require uncommon levels of intelligence and aptitude. Reconstruction - Continuing the flow of energy so as to reform the material into a new shape.Deconstruction - Using energy to break down the physical structure of the identified material into a more malleable state so as to be easily reshaped into a new form.Comprehension - Understanding the inherent structure and properties of the atomic or molecular makeup of a particular material to be transmuted, including the flow and balance of potential and kinetic energy within.This act is known as 'Transmutation' (錬成 Rensei) and its sequence is usually described as: This is the Principle of Equivalent Exchange.Īlchemy (錬金術 Renkinjutsu) is, as it is understood in the Fullmetal Alchemist series, the ancient metaphysical science/mystical art of manipulating and altering matter by using natural energy. Only one thing can be created from something else of a certain mass. However, as it is a science, there are some natural principles in place. If performed skillfully, it is even possible to create gold out of lead.

Alchemy, It is the scientific technique of understanding the structure of matter, decomposing it, and then reconstructing it.

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