For probably thousands of years people wondered where lightning came from, some people even went as far as saying that lightning storms came from a Valkyrie-like god smashing down on a lightning rod with a hammer. Surprisingly, today we still aren't sure where lightning comes from, even though we have many clues. However I came across an article that may suggest where lightning comes from and also how to harness its power!
Apparently Brazilian researchers may have found proof that water droplets from lightning storms may have small amounts electricity or charges stored inside of them. If what they say is true, then maybe we can find a new source of energy from nature itself! Unfortunately the article states that, "the finding violates the principle of electric neutrality, in which the differently charged molecules of an electrolyte like water cancel out." It seems that many of the most revolutionizing findings are in violation of certain set principles. The question is, are the set principles of science that we created holding us back as well?
Source site: http://www.scientificamerican.com/blog/post.cfm?id=harness-lightning-for-energy-thanks-2010-08-26
I think that if we can figure-out how to harness the energy, or even part of the energy, in a lightning bolt we would be able to fuel the majority of the planet. With that being said, even if we could harness the power of a bolt of lightning how would we store it. One potential storage source to consider is using the burst of energy to push water uphill, which can be store for a relatively low cost. Then, when the energy is needed the water can be released. Overall, harnessing the power of lightning would be a monumental step towards renewable energy. Something to consider, however, are the adverse effects of capturing lighting. Could the Earth be using the lightning for some unknown purpose?
ReplyDeleteGreat topic, I wonder what the actual amount of energy contained in a single bolt of lightening is - ie. the amount of voltage and current for that short period of time..
ReplyDeleteThis makes me wonder if everything we learn about in chemistry, biology, and such are not totally true but only partially true. I mean, they really are just bunch of theories backed up by some facts gathered by very smart people that lived on earth; they didn't create heaven and earth, so how would they really know for sure? Maybe we all have been deceived due to our gullibility... Just a thought.
ReplyDeleteOn the other hand, I think this would be an idea that would be discussed more and more as years go by and technology further develops, as it has been ever since electricity came in to play in the daily lives of humans. Many new ideas of alternative energy are coming up, so why couldn't this be one also? Yes, it will disprove many principles of chemistry. But, I also believe we should not limit ourselves to the "common knowledge" and think chemistry itself is all set in stone. Bohr's model was believed to be true back in his days, but many parts about his model was disproven later. So maybe, it will be proven someday.
I think this is the beauty of science and energy. There are too many mysteries of this world we have not figured out, and thus, new ideas and technology emerge frequently.
And who knows, maybe someone will figure out how to make energy out of thin air someday.