Physics (Internal)

WATER AND LIFE: The Role of Energy

This event is part of the Biophysics/Condensed Matter Seminar Series.

Abstract:
School children learn that water has three phases: solid, liquid and
vapor. But we have recently uncovered what appears to be a fourth
phase. This phase occurs next to water-loving (hydrophilic) surfaces. It
is surprisingly extensive, projecting out from the surface sometimes by
up to millions of molecular layers.

Of particular significance is the observation that this fourth phase is
charged. And, the water just beyond is oppositely charged, creating a
battery that can produce current. We found that this battery is
recharged by light. Thus, water can receive and process electromagnetic
energy drawn from the environment, much like plants. The absorbed light
energy can then be exploited for performing work, including electrical
and mechanical work. Recent experiments confirm this.

The energy-conversion framework implied above seems rich with
implication. Not only does it provide an understanding of how water
processes solar energy, but also it may provide a foundation for simpler
understanding natural phenomena ranging from weather and green energy
all the way to the origin of life.

The lecture will present evidence for the presence of this fourth phase
of water, and will consider its potentially broad implications for
physics, chemistry and biology.