In microdroplets of water measuring millionths of a meter, some of the H₂O molecules present can be converted into
Scientists at Stanford University reported for the first timeabout this unexpected behavior in the sprayed micro-droplets of water last year. Now, it turns out that the same transformation occurs when microdroplets simply condense from the air on cold surfaces. The new results suggest that the conversion of water to hydrogen peroxide is a common occurrence in fog, raindrops and wherever microdroplets form naturally.
The photo shows the condensate of microdroplets of water,formed on the surface of a glass container with cold water (left), and an image of microdroplets of water formed on a polished silicon surface (right). Credit: Jae Kyo Lee and Hyun Soo Han
This surprising discovery could lead tocreating greener methods for disinfecting surfaces or stimulating chemical reactions. Researchers also suggest that this newly discovered ability of water may have played a key role in triggering chemical processes on Earth billions of years ago.
Read also
Scientists have identified the cause of the explosion in Beirut on social networks
Scientists have studied how COVID-19 is transmitted indoors
From January 1, all smartphones must have 16 Russian applications