See the virus that makes water boil quicker

chika ebuzor

March 27, 2015 9:46 PM

McCarthy found out that the tobacco mosaic viruses, which commonly infect tobacco plants have the ability to make water boil fast. Watch this video and see how the virus works.

Boiling water takes some time, especially when you are in a hurry. Now, researchers say they have found a way to shorten the time you spend waiting for your water to boil.

This unique find by Matthew McCarthy of Drexel University is a great breakthrough in science. McCarthy found out that the tobacco mosaic viruses, which commonly infect tobacco plants have the ability to make water boil fast.

Their viruses are genetically modified to have tiny hooks, so they will stick to almost everything.

Matthew McCarthy in an interview with The Guardian said “When poured over a surface, the virus self-assembles into a layer of nano-tendrils, each pointing upward like a blade of grass. The surface is then covered with a microscopically thin layer of nickel, rendering the virus inert. The remaining "metallic grass" wicks liquids across the surface, allowing the water and element to remain in contact."

He also explained that when these nickel nano-structures are used to coat a surface, they prevent bubbles from sticking against it. Less insulation means more heat transfer, three times more, in fact. That translates to water that boils more efficiently.”

chika ebuzor