transmutation
/,trænzmju:'teiʃn/
Học thuậtThân thiện
A scientist observes the transmutation of an element in a laboratory experiment.
Definition
Noun: 1. A complete change in form, nature, or substance: The process of transforming something into a completely different thing. 2. (Physics/Chemistry) The conversion of one element into another: Specifically, the change of one chemical element into another, historically associated with alchemy and now understood through nuclear reactions like radioactive decay or bombardment.
Examples
- The novel explores the transmutation of a timid clerk into a confident leader.
- Alchemists spent centuries attempting the transmutation of lead into gold.
- Radioactive decay is a natural process of nuclear transmutation.
- The artist's work shows the transmutation of industrial waste into beautiful sculptures.
Advanced Usage
- "Transmutation of species": An archaic term in biology referring to the change of one species into another, a concept preceding the theory of evolution.
- "Transmutation of elements": The core goal of alchemy and a proven phenomenon in modern nuclear physics.
Variants and Related Words
- Transmute (verb): To change in form, nature, or substance.
- The storyteller transmuted a simple folktale into an epic saga.
- Transmutational (adjective): Relating to or involving transmutation.
- Transmutative (adjective): Having the power to cause transmutation.
Synonyms
- Transformation
- Conversion
- Metamorphosis
- Transfiguration
- Alteration
Related Phrases
- Transmutation table: A concept in some fantasy or gaming contexts for converting one material into another.
- Law of transmutation: A principle in some philosophical or esoteric systems describing fundamental change.
Related Idioms
- "To achieve transmutation": Often used metaphorically to describe a profound and fundamental change, akin to turning "base metal into gold."
- Through years of study and practice, she achieved a personal transmutation.
A scientist observes the transmutation of an element in a laboratory experiment.
Noun
- (physics) the change of one chemical element into another (as by nuclear decay or radioactive bombardment)
- the transmutation of base metals into gold proved to be impossible
- a qualitative change
- an act that changes the form or character or substance of something