Alchemy

From Srafopedia

Alchemy is said to be the forerunner to modern science. Its main aim was to turn common metals such as lead into precious metals such as gold. Most alchemists were unsuccessful, but some made accidental discoveries, such as discovering phosphorus in human urine.

The most famous alchemical substance is the philosophers stone which was said to turn any metal to pure gold, and make the user immortal. This substance was the key part of the first Harry Potter book.

Most alchemists were stereotyped as eccentric scientists, similar to magicians, and were mistrusted. Alchemy had no structure, just the random tinkerings of the alchemists.

Order was eventually brought into alchemy, and Chemistry was born from its remains.