6) Is alchemy a real science? In three to five sentences, explain your answer.

Answer 1

Alchemy is not considered a real science by modern standards, as it is based on mystical and philosophical concepts rather than empirical observation and experimentation. While alchemists made early contributions to the development of chemistry, particularly in the area of laboratory techniques and the discovery of substances, their goals were often tied to spiritual and metaphysical aspirations, such as the pursuit of immortality and the transmutation of base metals into gold. Modern chemistry, by contrast, relies on the scientific method, which emphasizes hypothesis testing, reproducibility, and quantifiable results. Thus, although alchemy played a historical role in the evolution of science, it does not meet the criteria of a rigorous scientific discipline today.