Missing Equations Understanding the physical world changed as the development of atomic theory progressed. The worldview before atomic theory is important to consider when trying to understand the kind of knowledge that people like Democritus and Epicurus had when they developed their theories that later influenced the further development of atomic theory. Alchemy Alchemy is normally thought of as the transition of metals into gold. In fact, according to William H. Brock, alchemists were "often interested in humanity's spiritual quest to make sense of the universe." The transition of metals was only a small part of what alchemy entailed. There were three main terms used to describe the work of early alchemists; macrobiotics, aurification, aurification. Macrobiotics used knowledge of the botanical, mineral and zoological fields and then created medicines or, as the alchemical times called them, elixirs. Aurification was the imitation of gold or other precious metals. Aurifification was the process of actually creating gold from another metal. Geography greatly influenced the practices of alchemists. All over the world, people explored the natural world and its chemical and physical properties. Rituals similar to those involved in the birth of children were often found in Siberia, Indonesia, and African alchemical procedures. Brock comments that “like embryos, metals grew in the womb of mother nature.” There were myths associated with the creation of metals and why they were present in the world. In Indian, Chinese and Arabic cultures they believed in the "elixir of life" and the alchemy that took place in these regions was focused on the body and the combination of what the body needs and what the body releases was of great importance. Arab culture is said to be responsible for the spread of these ideas in 14th century Europe. When focusing on developing scientific understanding it is necessary to take a closer look at the beliefs of the natural world of various geographic areas. China As stated earlier, China was more focused on the production of elixirs and drugs than on the transition of metals. Brock says their goal was to “bring the body closer to a state of perfection and harmony with the universe.” Undergoing this process would ultimately lead to immortality. Naitan was the term associated with physiological alchemy.