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Scientists at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) have created what could be a
breakthrough in providing clean, alternative energy. Researchers have invented an artificial
leaf that
splits water into hydrogen and oxygen and
stores the energy in a
fuel cell. The
device is about the size and shape of a
playing card, but is even thinner. It is made from
silicon and electronic components. The MIT team says it could power a home in a
developing country for a whole day just by putting it into water under the Sun. The artificial leaf is also cheap to produce. Research team leader Daniel Nocera said a prototype of his leaf in his laboratory operated non-stop for over 45 hours with
no drop in activity.
Technology that can efficiently turn sunlight and water into energy has long been seen as
the Holy Grail of science. The conversion of solar energy into hydrogen is one of the answers to the question of how to provide an effective alternative to
fossil fuels and
thus end our dependence on oil. Nocera’s invention could even help save the planet, by turning around
global warming. Furthermore,
in light of the events at Fukushima, Japan, it might also prove to be a safe
replacement for nuclear energy. However, this is all
wishful thinking at the moment. The technology, although highly
promising, is still in its
early stages of development. In the near future, it could provide energy to people in remote areas of sunnier countries.
Some food for thought...
What’s wrong with fossil fuels?
What happens if fossil fuels run out before we find an alternative?
Have we become too greedy for energy?
Do you think this invention could reverse global warming?
What do you think of nuclear energy?
