# The Occurrence of the Impossible explained — The Skylark of Space

> Chapter companion for The Skylark of Space by E. E. Smith.

## What happens

Richard Seaton accidentally discovers a way to liberate intra-atomic energy from copper while electrolyzing a solution of the unknown metal 'X'. The copper steam-bath he was using flies off into space, defying known laws of physics. After hours of contemplation, Seaton realizes he has unlocked a nearly infinite power source and envisions using it to explore the solar system with his friend Martin Crane.

## Themes in this chapter

### Scientific Discovery and Innovation

Seaton's accidental breakthrough in intra-atomic energy represents a paradigm-shifting scientific discovery.

### Exploration and the Unknown

Seaton immediately envisions using the new power source to explore the solar system.

## Character check-ins

### Richard Seaton

Discovers intra-atomic energy and plans to develop it for space exploration.

### Ferdinand Scott

A fellow chemist who dismisses Seaton's account as a drug-induced hallucination.

### Dorothy Vaneman

Seaton's fiancée, whom he unintentionally stands up for dinner due to his absorption in the discovery.

## Key lines

> I have liberated the intra-atomic energy of copper! Copper, ‘X,’ and electric current!

Seaton realizes he has unlocked the energy within copper atoms using the unknown metal X and electricity.

_Key moment of discovery._

> Talk about power! Infinite! Believe me, I’ll show this whole Bureau of Chemistry something to make their eyes stick out, tomorrow.

Seaton is excited about the limitless potential of his discovery and plans to demonstrate it to his colleagues.

_Reflects Seaton's ambition and confidence._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_skylark_of_space_se/chapters/i-the-occurrence-of-the-impossible
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_skylark_of_space_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_skylark_of_space_se/chapters