Tier: First
Computation: 7 segment
Glass required: No
B-M-S Cost: 0.375
Duration: Instantaneous
Area of Effect: Three ounces per level
This formula is essential for neutralizing poisons, explosives, and even radioactive materials. By completing this formula, the Mathematician is able to reduce a complex chemical or amalgam into its simpler derivatives. For example, if a Mathematician suspects that a glass of wine is poisoned, she may separate the poison from the wine. If she is wrong, and the drink is indeed safe, the formula then targets the next most complex chemical, the alcohol. In the latter instance, the result is grape juice and a very small amount of pure alcohol. Similar effects can result when used on radioactive materials. Plutonium can be converted to uranium, its less radioactive derivative. Almost any complex chemical can be derived, but living matter cannot. The Mathematician may find if handy to have beakers or small containers with which she may store the derived chemicals.
Another use of this formula is to reverse the effects of an Integration. Items (or people, in the event of a particularly cruel Mathematician) can be uncombined. The normal weight and volume restrictions are ignored in the case of reversing an Integration. To determine if this operation is successful, the Mathematician invoking Derivative must match his or her level against the level of the Mathematician who cast Integration (using the Universal Matrix). If the target of the formula is unwilling, a save versus magical weapon will negate the effect.
If the formula is used for combat purposes (i.e. wrecking a solid steel door by deriving it into carbon and iron filings), it can inflict a structural point of damage per use. Consecrated/magical/supernatural items get a +1 save versus harmonics per degree of enchantment. Mundane items do not get a save, although damage is limited to a single structural point. Typical combat uses include weakening a small area in a castle wall, weakening a section of boat hull, ruining doors and grates, and injuring Constructs.