* It's a fundamental concept: The idea that materials transfer between objects in contact is a fundamental aspect of physics and chemistry. It's not a specific discovery, but rather a basic principle.
* Historical context: Throughout history, many scientists and philosophers have contributed to our understanding of matter and its interactions. Ideas about particles, atoms, and the transfer of matter have evolved over centuries.
* The extent of transfer: The amount of material exchanged depends on the nature of the objects, their surface properties, and the conditions. Sometimes the transfer is microscopic, while other times it's readily observable.
Therefore, it's not possible to pinpoint a single individual who "stated" this idea. Instead, it's a concept that has been developed and refined through the collective efforts of many scientific minds over time.