Photosynthesis - Research between Observation and Development
This article draws parallels between photosynthesis research methodology and Merus's empirical approach to water treatment technology, demonstrating how trial-and-error experimentation is a legitimate scientific practice
This second installment in the "Empirical evidence" series explores photosynthesis research as an analogy for scientific methodology.
"Artificial photosynthesis is the holy grail of research."
Plants convert light energy into storable chemical energy during photosynthesis. Algae and bacteria also perform this process. Sunlight produces carbohydrates from water and carbon dioxide, serving as energy storage while releasing oxygen. Optimizing or artificially simulating this process could address climate change and resource scarcity challenges, making it highly attractive for research.
Dealing with assumptions in research
Research operates through assumptions tested sequentially:
1st assumption: Different living beings perform photosynthesis, storing energy chemically as carbohydrates. Investigation follows into necessary steps, chemical components, and prerequisites.
2nd assumption: The process is fully understood, allowing researchers to modify individual components and observe effects.
3rd assumption: The process might be artificially recreated through empirical work and theory-essentially trial and error. Experimental setups contain numerous variables, successively checked and rechecked until desired results emerge.
What does this have to do with Merus?
Every successful Merus installation supports the Merus Ring theory. Some installations involve unpredictability with large, complex applications or novel problems. When effects don't occur immediately but emerge after adjustments, this provides valuable insights applicable to future customers, broadening technological understanding. Occasionally, the number of Merus Rings can be reduced while maintaining results, reducing costs and revealing technology limits. This approach demonstrates that empirical experimentation is standard scientific practice.
