[sci.nanotech] Photochemical power sources?

snowhite@walt.cc.utexas.edu (jones r.) (05/28/90)

I am not familiar with this stuff too deeply either. However, man
copies from nature abundantly so I figure that ATP-like substances
will be used. Also it might be posible to send energy along a
circuit made of molecules in a digital-quatum mechinics like manner.
The molecules will change states and shapes in a violent and sudden
way but also in a very predictable way, always seeking the lowest
state.

 Mike Cheselka
 400 w. 34th st. apt. #103
 Austin, Texas, 78705

[I doubt that nanomachines will use ATP, for the same reason that
 cars don't use ATP:  nanomachines will be built of stronger,
 more resistant stuff than proteins, and will be able to use
 high-energy fuels directly.  Personally, I wouldn't be surprised
 to see hydrogen in applications where a physical fuel is used.
 Nanomachines could also use electricity; the tradeoffs remain
 to be made.
 --JoSH]