Element Zero

Eezo, the rare material behind mass effect fields.

Element Zero, also known as "eezo," is a rare material that releases dark energy when subjected to an electrical current, which can be manipulated into a mass effect field to raise or lower the mass of objects within it. It is generated when solid matter is affected by the energy of a star going supernova, and is commonly found in asteroid debris orbiting neutron stars and pulsars. A positive current increases mass while a negative current decreases it, enabling applications from artificial gravity to faster-than-light space travel. Dust-form element zero is toxic to organic life and can induce biotic abilities in children exposed in utero, though it may also cause terminal cancer.

Quick Facts

Nature: Rare crystalline mineral
Primary effect: Mass manipulation via dark energy
Key technology enabled: Faster-than-light travel (Mass Relays)

Lore & Background

The Citadel Council and various species utilize this technology, but it does not specify Element Zero as the fuel or mechanism behind these functions, nor does it mention biotic abilities derived from prenatal exposure to a mineral.

Reader's Guide

The source explains that Mass Effect games are action role-playing games featuring 'biotic' skills described as similar to mutant abilities. It notes that players customize characters with classes centered on combat, technology, or biotic skills.