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
What OB-GYNs want every mother to know about how pregnancy changes you
BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM With Mother’s Day just behind us, conversations about everything that mothers give are top of mind. However, the ...
Read MoreWhat Hanoi learned by tearing down its park fences and opening up to everyone
BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM In many cities, entering a park is a deliberate act. You adjust your route, find a gate, and ...
Read MoreWhat cities can learn from Spokane’s approach to homelessness
The common approach cities take to deal with homelessness is tough enforcement: ticketing people for panhandling or sleeping in doorways or busing them to ...
Read MoreNew nasal spray treatment could help prevent Alzheimer’s
According to the World Health Organization, around 55 million people worldwide suffer from dementia. Although there’s currently no cure, researchers are unabatedly looking for ...
Read More
