The molecule created by the researchers is the key to the future implementation of artificial fotosynthesis. The team hopes this will bring people to a sustainable future energy.
Researchers from Basel University in Switzerland have created a unique molecule that inspires the process of fotosynthesis in plants. According to Sciencedaily, this discovery is a major step toward artificial fotosynthesis and the manufacture of carbon-neutral fuel.
By nature, fotosynthesis allows plants to convert sunlight energy into carbon dioxide sugar molecules. Animals and humans consume these compounds, featuring CO2 and closing the natural cycle. Scientists seek to copy this mechanism to create so -called “solar fuel” – hydrogen, methanol or synthetic fuel, which, when combined, will only release the amount of carbon dioxide, which is used for their labor. Thus, the fuel will be neutral carbon.
Professor Oliver Wenger’s team described a molecule in the journal Nature Chemistry, which could at the same time accumulate two positive and two negative charges. This is a basic condition to convert the light to the chemical energy, as these are the charges that launch reactions – for example, the downfall of water in hydrogen and oxygen.
The structure of the molecule was built by five parts located in succession. Two segments on the one hand provide electrons and get a positive charge. The other two at the opposite end was taken by electrons and became negatively charged. The middle substance absorbs the light and begins the process of transferring electrons.
To accumulate four charges, the researchers used a two -stage approach. The first outbreak of light motivates the formation of a positive and a negative charge, which deviates at the opposite ends of the molecule. The second flash repeats the reaction, as a result of which the molecule contains four charges.
The new technique gives you to work with a weaker light, close to intensity to natural sunlight. In the past, such experiments have needed powerful lasers, which have become far from practical use. In addition, molecules charges will remain stable for a long time to use it for further chemical reactions.
However, the new molecule has not yet created a working system of artificial fotosynthesis. But, according to researchers, they have created the main part of such a system.
We remind, earlier it was reported that scientists have proven that thermal waves are accelerating aging.
The first picture of the South Pole of the day was received
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Source: korrespondent
I am Ben Stock, a passionate and experienced digital journalist working in the news industry. At the Buna Times, I write articles covering technology developments and related topics. I strive to provide reliable information that my readers can trust. My research skills are top-notch, as well as my ability to craft engaging stories on timely topics with clarity and accuracy.