Earlier this year, on October 31, Researchers at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) discovered an unexpected connection between light and water evaporation. The study shows that water can evaporate directly under light, without the influence of heat. This finding paves the way for potential advancements in desalination processes and climate models according to the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.
Tests showed that the evaporation rate peaks under a specific wavelength of green light, establishing a strong link between light color and evaporation rate. The experiments also showed that both water and the hydrogel were able to absorb light adequately, leading to highly efficient evaporation.
Despite early skepticism, the team has worked with other research groups to replicate to their findings and solidify the evidence supporting the photomolecular effect as stated by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.
