Matter cannon were developed by the application of chaos theory to the relationship between matter and energy.
It goes on to say:
Once the postulates of chaos theory are grasped, no conceptual obstacle prevents the hypothetical existence of forms of chaos which are transformed by their own limits into forms of order under certain conditions. And if such forms of chaos can exist, they can also be made to exist: they can be designed and generated in such a way that they will resolve themselves into forms of order when given parameters are satisfied.
In metaphorical terms, then, a matter cannon emits a beam of light-constant energy which 'freezes' upon contact with matter. This energy takes on mass from any object in its path - mass which for mere pico-seconds exists at the speed of light, and which is therefore at least theoretically infinite.
My first guess: to keep a record of potential criminal activity?
An impressive first guess!
Eventually that became the rationalization, but it was not the original justification for requiring datacores in spaceships.
When Min and Dolph, aboard Punisher, are preparing to defend Trumpet from destruction at the hands of Calm Horizons, which other ship unexpectedly comes to Trumpet’s aid?
Classic Donaldson ratcheting tension, redeeming irredeemable characters while abruptly dispensing with other irredeemables. Closing chapters of Chaos and Order are amazing!
Yes, I know what I've done by answering. Soon...
Love prevails.
~ Tracie Mckinney-Hammon
Change is not a process for the impatient.
~ Barbara Reinhold
A government which robs Peter to pay Paul, can always count on the support of Paul.
~ George Bernard Shaw