These days it seems scientists are finding ways to produce energy out of just about anything, from sunlight and wind to waves and cow manure. Generating electricity from falling snow can now be added to that list after scientists at UCLA developed a small device that does just that. Apparently, snow is positively charged and gives up electrons. Silicone, on the other hand, is negatively charged. When falling snow contacts the silicone surface of the device, it produces a charge that the device captures, creating electricity. Considering that 30 percent of the Earth’s surface is covered by snow each winter, during which time solar panels often fail to operate, this new device could be integrated into solar panels to provide a continuous power supply when it snows. The inexpensive device could also be used to power other things such as remote weather stations or wearables that track an athlete’s performance.
Scientists come up with device that generates electricity from snowfall
More of Today's Solutions
Here are some easy recipes for making your own hand sanitizer
By now you must surely be aware that washing your hands clean is necessary to keep you and others protected during the pandemic. You’ve ...
Read MoreThe case for shifting to a four-day workweek for post-pandemic life
At The Optimist Daily, we’re putting a lot of focus on what the world can do after the pandemic to create a healthier, more ...
Read MoreSo your compost has mold? What it means and what to do about it
So you’ve set up a functioning compost system in your backyard. First things first, congratulations! But how do you know if your compost is ...
Read MoreMapping out the Milky Way’s snacks gives clues into dark matter
In our galaxy’s galactic halo, there are 12 streams of stars orbiting. These burning balls of gas are actually being torn apart and their ...
Read More
