Theory
A replicator works by rearranging
subatomic particles, which are abundant everywhere in the
universe, to form the
molecules required by the formula at hand. It then arranges the molecules in accordance with said formula to finally create the substance; e.g., to materialize
water, the replicator would first form
hydrogen and
oxygen molecules in immense quantities, and then arrange them according to the
chemical formula of water.
This process requires the destructive conversion of bulk matter into energy and its subsequent reformation into a pre-scanned matter pattern. In principle, this is similar to the
transporter, but on a smaller scale. However, unlike transporters, which duplicate matter at the quantum level, replicators must be capable of a large number of different materials on demand. If patterns were to be stored at the quantum level, an impossible amount of data storage (or a set of original copies of the materials) would be required. To resolve this, patterns are stored in memory at the molecular level.
The drawback of doing so is that it is impossible to replicate objects with complicated quantum structures, such as living beings,
dilithium, or
latinum. (However, in the TNG episode "
Allegiance", the aliens used their replicators to create a Picard imposter.) Additionally, read/write errors cause a number of single-
bit errors to occur in replicated materials. Though usually undetectable to human senses, computer scanning can be used to reveal these discrepancies, and they may explain the frequent complaint (by some
gourmets and
connoisseurs) that replicated food and beverages suffer from substandard taste. These errors also may cause a nontoxic material to become toxic when replicated.
[edit] Uses
One of the most important pieces of technology in the Star Trek universe, the replicator is used primarily to provide food and water onboard starships, thus eliminating the need to stock most provisions. (Starships, starbases, and other installations stock some provisions for emergency use, in case of replicator failure or an energy crisis.) On Star Trek: Deep Space Nine, it was established that replication is also used to provide breathable air on ships and starbases (and to disassemble the carbon dioxide exhaled by the crew), thus providing an endless supply of oxygen and eliminating the need to carry air tanks.
The technology is also used for producing spare parts, which makes it possible to repair most ship damage without having to return to a starbase. The quantum resolution factor, however, precludes the mass production of the highest yielding weapons, such as quantum torpedoes.[citation needed] Other applications include replication of Starfleet uniforms, as well as everyday objects such as toys and souvenirs. Replication is also used by the Holodeck program to allow food, clothes and other objects belonging within a simulation to be used or consumed by the participants.
Starfleet's safety protocols prevent unauthorized replication of dangerous objects, such as weapons and poisonous substances. Replication of any medicine is restricted to medical personnel bearing a valid identification code.[1]
Replicators can also convert matter into energy. Following that principle, the device can dismantle any object into subatomic particles. The ensuing energy can then be stored for future use or immediately applying in a subsequent replication. This process is referred to as "recycling", and is applied to everything from dirty dishes to outgrown children's clothes; in the case of the latter, the replicator uses the energy to produce new items that will fit the child.
