e.
(Ether.) This fifth element, in which the attributes of all the other states have their basis, will be the principal object for scientific research in the coming centuries, and is in fact the first and the one element.
These elements represent themselves as the Tattwas enumerated in the preceding chapter, and correspond to them as follows, if we adopt the above line of order:—
a. Prithivi. Solidity. (Earth.)
b. Apas. Movement. Bulk. (Water.)
c. Vayu. Extension. (Air.)
d. Taijas. Energy. Intensity. (Fire.)
e. Akâsa. The one Tattwa forming the basis of the rest. (Sound.)[23]
The limitation of space in these pages, no less than the insufficiency of our experience in regard to this subject, forbids us to enter into a closer investigation of the relations existing between this aspect of Alchemy and physical chemistry; but we have reason to affirm, that we are on the eve of great discoveries, which will to a certain extent revolutionize the popular chemistry of the present day.