Science04.08.2022 - 08:19

Chemists at Stanford University have figured out how raindrops form hydrogen peroxide

It's all about asphalt.

Фото: from open sources

Scientists at Stanford University conducted a study that showed how water can change its chemical properties. For this purpose, a team of specialists developed a model apparatus.

An experimental glass apparatus fitted with microscopic channels formed an airtight matrix between water droplets and hard surfaces, such as asphalt.

Next, using a fluorescent dye, the scientists traced the presence of hydrogen peroxide. It turned out that its formation occurs at the boundary between water droplets and solids within 2-3 seconds.

Simply put, the electric charge moves from the liquid to the solid. During these movements, unstable reactive oxygen forms occur. They then contain OH hydroxyl radicals, which form small amounts of hydrogen peroxide.

The result of the study provides, in part, an understanding of why the cause of active infectious diseases in winter. In summer, when humidity is high, reactive oxygen species are able to destroy viruses.

 

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