The Photosynthetic Water-Splitter

History

The idea of photosynthesis was first theorized by Jan Baptista van Helmont while conducting an experiment on a willow tree during the seventeenth century. In 1771, Joseph Priestly performed experiments that concluded plants chemically modify the air when a burning candle is out. It was eventually discovered by Cornelius van Niel in 1931.

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Present Technology

Solar panels have gained popularity as alternative energy sources, especially the photovoltaic type, because of their efficiency compared to other solar panels. Although they may be one of the most environmentally friendly ways to gather energy to use, they are somewhat inefficient, and very expensive to build.