Are the properties of "element zero" feasible?

I am trying to fact check a consistent set of properties and applications for the titular unobtainium from the Mass Effect games in order to avoid introducing contradictions. Certain sources I read claim it wouldn't allow for the applications it is used for.

The in-game codex isn't detailed (it says it increases or reduces mass with positive or negative current and throws around "dark energy" like an accepted scientific term) and physics is not my area of expertise. I assume it works on principles similar to an electromagnet, but allows for the generation of gravitational fields with the strength of electromagnetic fields (×4.2E42 more force).

A block of the stuff is, I assume, bipolar and produces attractive or repulsive gravitational force based on the direction of current. Basically it combines the best parts of gravity and electromagnetism for the arbitrary manipulation of gravity, hence "unobtainium".

This unobtainium is noted in-game to have applications of:

• casual flying vehicles (counteracting gravity?)

• faster than light travel (Alcubierre drive?)

• acceleration without thrust (create a gravity well in front of the vehicle?)

• projectile weaponry using metal shavings (gravity railguns?)

• repelling kinetic projectiles (force fields?)

• moving objects at a distance

• artificial gravity so everyone can walk inside spacecraft

• counteracting intertia so spacecraft may accelerate without need for seat belts

• for unknown reasons, leaving FTL drives running causes spacecraft to generate increasingly powerful lightning storms (EDIT: in-game explanation is that leaving FTL drives running causes spacecraft to generate "drive charge" even though this this violates conservation of charge)

Are element zero's properties internally consistent? Would it indeed allow the applications purported?

posted about 8 years ago

Anonymous‭

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