Light can make water evaporate without heat (news.mit.edu)

Article summary

Researchers at MIT have discovered that light can cause water to evaporate without heat, a phenomenon they call the photomolecular effect. This effect occurs at the interface between water and air, and is more efficient than heat in certain conditions. The discovery could have implications for climate modeling, solar-powered desalination, and other industrial processes. The researchers found that the effect varies with the color of the light and peaks at a particular wavelength of green light.

Main themes

• photomolecular effect
• solar desalination
• climate modeling
• thermodynamics
• industrial applications
• scientific skepticism

What commenters say

• The article's description of solar desalination efficiency is unclear and should include a time component.
• The photomolecular effect is surprising because it seems to allow evaporation to exceed the thermal limit, potentially violating thermodynamic principles.
• The effect may be due to the energy from light being used more efficiently to break the bonds between water molecules, rather than heating the water.
• The discovery could have significant practical applications, including more efficient solar-powered desalination and evaporative cooling systems.
• Some commenters are skeptical of the findings and question whether they represent a genuine breakthrough or a misunderstanding of thermodynamic principles.
• Others see the discovery as a potential catalyst for new technologies and applications, including cloud formation and climate modeling.
• The relationship between light, heat, and evaporation is complex and not fully understood, and further research is needed to clarify the mechanisms at play.