Science history / DAY 11 OF 40
Newton had an alchemy era.
The famous physicist left an enormous body of alchemical writing.
Here's the strange part.
Newton had interests that do not fit neatly on a school poster. Alongside his better-known work, he wrote extensively about alchemy, or “chymistry,” leaving more than a million words on the subject according to the linked account. Historians investigate how those interests connect to his other ideas. The manuscripts are evidence; claims about their influence still require interpretation. (National Endowment for the Humanities)
Historical alchemy and modern chemistry are not interchangeable. Interpretations of how one influenced his other work remain historical arguments.
REALITY CHECK · TRUE OR FALSE?
Newton's other browser tabs.
Newton's alchemical writing is documented, but its influence is a historical question.
Go straight to the receipts.
Curious about the methods, dates or details? Open the original source and keep the caveat in view.
ORIGINAL SOURCENational Endowment for the HumanitiesOpen publication ↗NEXT IN THE 40-DAY TRAIL / DAY 12The glacier with a red outflow. ↗