July 01, 2022
Researchers from the University of Cambridge, UK, have powered a microprocessor for more than a year using just algae, light and water. The system, around the size of an AA battery, makes use of synechocystis, which is a type of non-toxic algae. Synechocystis harvest energy from the sun through the process of photosynthesis, generating a tiny electrical current. This current interacts with an aluminium electrode to power the microprocessor.
The bacteria continue to produce power even in the dark. Researchers believe this is because the algae continue to process food in the absence of light, generating an electrical current. This energy can be used to power small devices and can become an eco-friendly energy source for Internet of Things (IoT) devices.
Did You Know?
IoT describes a network of physical objects that are embedded with sensors, software and other technologies and are used to connect and exchange data with other devices and systems over the internet.
ACTIVITY: Light to Food
Explain the process of photosynthesis using a flow chart.
