News Chemistry

Laser makes uphill battle easier

Scientists have etched plates to pull liquid up

By Rachel Ehrenberg

- More than 2 years ago

If Sisyphus’ punishment involved dragging buckets of water uphill rather than rolling a boulder, science could have helped him out.

GROOVES VS. GRAVITY Scientists zapped metal surfaces with a laser to create grooves (top), which have elaborate microstructures (bottom). These structures aid in the flow of liquid uphill.