Chinese Alchemy: It is unknown when alchemy first began in China. Alchemy centers on the purification of the soul and body in hopes of becoming immortal. Through alchemy it was said that one could produce gold from worthless materials. When alchemy was introduced to Europe it began to transform. The sole purpose that the Western world practiced alchemy was in order to potentially produce gold. In China the main reason that they practiced was for eternal life. One reason that their views differ is because while China prospered, Europe was in a time of turmoil after the fall of Rome. It makes sense that Europe would do anything in order to become successful again and alchemy was an opportunity to the Western world.