Scientists have found a way to extract energy from photosynthesis | DW News
New Breakthrough in Photosynthesis
Scientists from the University of Cambridge have discovered a new and efficient way to harness power from photosynthesis, which could become an important source of clean energy.
Laser Experiment Reveals Working of Electronics in Cells
- Scientists used lasers to capture the explosion of energy at the beginning of photosynthesis.
- The laser showed the working of the electronics in cells for the first time, giving researchers a target.
- Electrons were chaperoned out by a molecule, resulting in maximum efficiency possible.
- A dinner plate-sized amount of bacteria powered a computer for six months.
Plants vs Solar Panels
- Plants absorb 100% light from the visible spectrum compared to solar panels which absorb nearly a third less.
- In photosynthesis, plants take carbon dioxide and water with sunlight and chlorophyll to turn it into sugar and oxygen.
- Plants use some energy they capture for functions like growing or moving towards or away from sunlight but not all is used.
- Scientists say electrons taken from plants are spare.
Plant-Based Solar Cells as Clean Energy Source
- The next challenge is designing agents to move electrons to phones or electrodes.
- Plant-based solar cells only need light and water, taking carbon from the atmosphere unlike traditional solar panels.
- Levelized cost of eligibility needs consideration when pushing this technology out on a larger scale.
Photosynthesis for Electricity Production
In this section, Tommy Bakey from the University of Cambridge discusses how photosynthesis can be used for electricity production and other electronic processes.
New Paradigm for Photosynthesis
- With the abundance of water and light on Earth, cheap solar panels can be developed without expensive manufacturing processes.
- Photosynthesis has been used for hundreds of thousands of years to produce food, fuels, and useful materials.
- A new paradigm is emerging where photosynthesis can be used for electricity production and a whole wave of different electronic processes.