Professional Documents
Culture Documents
Y4 - Intro To Alchemy 101
Y4 - Intro To Alchemy 101
Alchemy is believed to have originated in Egypt, and the word derives from an
ancient Egyptian word khem, meaning black earth (itself derived from
Ancient Egypts native name, Kemet) . Through Medieval Latin and Arabic
influences it has evolved to the modern word we use today.
Prominent alchemists throughout history include Dzou Yen, Paracelsus, and more
recently, Nicolas Flamel and Albus Dumbledore. Alchemy has contributed to
several very important Muggle fields, which include ore testing and refining,
metalworking, and the manufacture of inks, dyes, cosmetics, glass and ceramics.
Muggles have also adapted the discoveries of ancient alchemists (but thanks to
the International Statute of Secrecy, not more modern developments) to
reportedly create gumpowder. Its exact use is currently under investigation by
the Ministry of Magic.