xxChrisxx
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andrewbb said:Capillary force is determined by the electromagnetic charges of the molecules. Different molecules have different strengths, so you could have a 2 material tube. Strong at first that pulls up, slope down on the weaker strength tube and gravity will overcome the cohesion.
No references. It's an idea I had about 4 weeks ago and am researching now. Given that hydrogen bonds are essentially a magnet, this seems doable. FYI, I do consider hydrogen bonds as the same force governing "capillary action". Just on the molecular level.
I really mean no offence by this but... what utter crap.
The single biggest overriding factor that governs capillary action is having a very narrow tube and the relative pressures at either end.
Water isn't attracted by 'magnets' like you are thinking becuse it has a dipole, the attraction has to be induced and water has extremely low permeability. (Ie it doesn't magenetise well.)There is much much more interesting (similar) thing being done like this already. It uses a membrane and salt and fresh water. Due to the different concentrations the water crosses the membrane by osmosis raising the levels and forcing the water up and through a nozzle that drives a turbine.
Only really any good if you live next to a river and the sea but, it's pretty cool.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/world/europe/8377186.stm
I'm trying to find the video I saw of it.
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