Did Sir Isaac Newton discover alchemy in his later years?

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Isaac Newton's interest in alchemy and mysticism spanned his entire life, not just his later years, and he produced numerous largely unpublished works in these fields. His alchemical studies included attempts to understand the transformation of materials, which some speculate may have contributed to a psychological breakdown, potentially linked to chemical exposure. Discussions highlight the intertwined nature of alchemy and early scientific practices, with Newton's work reflecting a blend of chemistry, astrology, and biblical interpretation. While some of Newton's alchemical writings were lost in a fire, ongoing research, including efforts by historians like William Newman, aims to decipher and publish his findings. The conversation also touches on the historical context of alchemy, noting its secretive nature and the challenges faced by practitioners due to societal pressures. Ultimately, while Newton's alchemical pursuits are acknowledged, skepticism remains regarding the efficacy of alchemy itself, with many asserting that it lacks scientific validity compared to modern chemistry.
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Integral said:
Start with http://aether.lbl.gov/www/tour/elements/stellar/stellar_b.html"

According to http://home.teleport.com/~salad/4god/elements.htm" even god aproves of element formation inside of stars.

http://origins.jpl.nasa.gov/library/poster/elementform3.html" seems to think heavy elements are formed at the end of a stars life.

How many more do you want?

Believe it or not modern Physics pretty well understands the strucure of the elements. It is not a mystery where they came from or how they got here. Alchemy is not the answer.

That's cool. Thank you for the reference material.

This whole disscussion about how gold is formed is a diversion away from my original question about Newton's alchemical discoveries.

I have simply stated some of my observations on gold formation. Personally, it is the alchemical work that Newton performed and why he did so that interests me... and I found some answers during the tributaries of discussion that have occurred on my thread, "Newton's Alchemy?", here.

I think I can rely on William Newman's accounts and his decifering of Newton's notes on alchemcial experiments for information with regard to the topic of my thread.

Thank you to anyone who has attempted or was going to attempt to bring some more info on Newton's alchemy to the table. I think I hear :!) and :!) calling. Cheers.
 
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