Historical Ideas about the Nature of Matter

  • 350

    Aristotle

    Aristotle
    After the death of Democritus, Aristotle and Socrates rejected thr atomic model and adopted Empedocles "four element" model. This model has influenced and dominated scientific thinking for almost 2000 years. He is said by many to be the smartest human being to ever walk on this planet.
  • 400

    Democritus

    Democritus
    He suggested matter was made of tiny particles that could not be broken down further. He called these particles "atomos" which means indivisible. He is known as the 'Laughing Philosopher" because he was often happy and cheerful at work.
  • 450

    Empedocles

    Empedocles
    He proposed that matter was composed of four elements- Earth, Water, Air, Fire. He proposed the two powers named Love and Strife which were forces that are involved with the mixture and seperation of elements.
  • 500

    Alchemists

    Alchemists
    They were around from 500-1600 AD. They were the first people to perform hands-on experimentation. They were part philosopher, mystic, magician, and chemist. They believed that elements could be changed into others and they attempted to change base metals into more valuable ones but in the process they discovered many new elements and facts on existing elements. They also believed they could find a substance that would give them eternal life.
  • 500

    Alchemists continued

    Alchemists continued
    They also believed they could create a universal solvent that would dissolve all substances. They believed they could also make an "elixir of life" which would be strong enough to cure someone of any disease.