The concept of alchemy, which aimed to transform common metals into noble metals like gold, was based on the belief that substances could be fundamentally altered or transmuted. However, our understanding of the nature of matter and subatomic particles has evolved significantly since the days of alchemy.
In modern physics, subatomic particles are indeed similar across different elements, but they are governed by the fundamental laws of nature, such as the principles of quantum mechanics and the Standard Model of particle physics. These laws dictate the behavior and interactions of particles, including how they combine to form atoms and molecules.
Water and wine are both composed of different arrangements of atoms. Water is made up of two hydrogen atoms and one oxygen atom (H2O), while wine is a complex mixture of various organic compounds and water. The properties and characteristics of substances, such as taste, color, and smell, are determined by the specific arrangement and types of atoms and molecules present.
While it is possible to chemically manipulate substances, such as changing the composition of wine through fermentation or distillation, it is not possible to transform one element or compound directly into another simply by rearranging subatomic particles. The transmutation of elements, as envisioned in alchemy, is not feasible within the boundaries of our current understanding of physics.
However, it is important to note that advancements in nuclear physics have allowed for the artificial transmutation of certain elements through processes like nuclear reactions or particle bombardment. These techniques involve changing the number of protons and neutrons in atomic nuclei, resulting in the creation of new elements or isotopes. Nevertheless, these processes are highly specialized and not comparable to the kind of transmutation pursued by alchemists.
In summary, the principles of modern physics and our understanding of subatomic particles do not support the possibility of directly transforming one element into another through simple manipulation of particles.