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August 8, 2007

Scientists Discover New Way To Levitate Objects

Topics: General Science

Actually, I didn't realize that there was an "old" way to levitate objects, so naturally, I'm all the more impressed to learn there's now a "new" way:

Theoretical physicists at the University of St. Andrews have created 'incredible levitation effects' by engineering the force of nature which normally causes objects to stick together by quantum force. By reversing this phenomenon, known as 'Casimir force' (demonstrated in a gecko's ability to stick to a surface with just one toe), the scientists hope to solve the problem of tiny objects sticking together in existing novel nanomachines.

Read more about the effects here ...

As for the image, it's nothing more than an Andrew Van Buren illusion; as the article points out, for now - "human levitation remains the subject of cartoons, fairytales and tales of the paranormal."

Thanks to Harry Owen for sending in the story.

Posted by Richard at August 8, 2007 10:35 AM

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