Engineering slick solutions for sticky problems - Science Nation

The video explores how natural designs, like those of the Venus flytrap and lotus leaf, inspire efficient and innovative technologies. Tak-Sing Wong's team at Penn State University is developing SLIPS, a slippery coating that mimics natural surfaces, with potential applications in oil transport, ice prevention, and marine biofouling. The technology can be customized for various uses, including medical devices and rugged environments. Inspired by the pitcher plant and lotus leaf, a water harvesting system is being developed to address water shortages. The research aims to tackle grand challenges in water, energy, and health by looking to nature for solutions.

What natural feature inspired the creation of SLIPS?

• The bark of a tree

• The shell of a turtle

• The wings of a butterfly

• The surface of a lotus leaf

Which of the following is NOT a potential application of SLIPS mentioned in the video?

• Preventing ice on airplane wings

• Reducing drag in oil pipelines

• Enhancing solar panel efficiency

• Preventing marine biofouling

What is a key feature of SLIPS that makes it versatile for different applications?

• It can change color

• It can be chemically customized

• It is biodegradable

• It is magnetic

How does the water harvesting system benefit from the properties of SLIPS?

• It uses SLIPS to increase evaporation

• It uses SLIPS to filter impurities

• It uses SLIPS to repel dust

• It uses SLIPS to collect water from the air

What are the grand challenges in the 21st century that the research on SLIPS aims to address?

• Space exploration and colonization

• Water, energy, and health

• Global warming and deforestation

• Urbanization and overpopulation