For 10 points, this subject taught that mercury could be turned into any metal, including the much-sought gold.
In 1936, John Maynard Keynes bought a large collection of Isaac Newton's papers, but was dismayed to find no mention of planetary orbits or gravity, instead finding material on just one subject, one that may explain the unnaturally high concentration of mercury in Newton's hair. For 10 points, this subject taught that mercury could be turned into any metal, including the much-sought gold.
In 1936, John Maynard Keynes bought a large collection of Isaac Newton's papers, but was dismayed to find no mention of planetary orbits or gravity, instead finding material on just one subject, one that may explain the unnaturally high concentration of mercury in Newton's hair.
{Alchemy}