Real-world alchemy vs. Fullmetal Alchemist alchemy:
* Real-world alchemy: This historical practice focused on transforming base metals into gold and finding the elixir of life. While there were some practical advancements in chemistry and metallurgy, real-world alchemy never achieved the feats depicted in the show.
* Fullmetal Alchemist alchemy: The show's alchemy involves transmutation of matter by manipulating the fundamental building blocks of the universe. This requires a deep understanding of equivalent exchange, which is a fictional concept. It also involves the use of "Philosopher's Stones" and other magical elements not found in reality.
The limitations of current science:
* Matter cannot be created or destroyed: The law of conservation of mass dictates that matter cannot be created or destroyed, only transformed. While we can break down matter into its constituent atoms, we cannot simply create new ones or change their fundamental nature.
* No "Philosopher's Stone": There is no real-world equivalent of the Philosopher's Stone, which allows for seemingly limitless transmutation.
* No magical abilities: Humans do not possess the ability to manipulate matter or energy at the level depicted in the show.
While alchemy as shown in Fullmetal Alchemist is not real, it remains an interesting fictional exploration of scientific possibilities and human ambition.