Can we use Gravity as a source of energy?

With the fast depleting fossil fuels the scientific minds in the world are turning to generating alternative means of energy. However when we say alternative energy we think of things like solar energy, wind energy and water turbine energy. Rarely, if at all do we think of tapping into the ever present gravitational energy present all over the earth.

So how can we use gravity, which is the pull that physical objects have between them, as a source of energy to run simple devices? The answer may be as simple as the hourglass that the Swizz designed to keep time, or as complex as the gravity powered motors that scientists are experimenting with these days.

One of the most enthralling uses of gravitational power was envisioned by Clay Moulton, a graduate student at Virginia Tech. He came up with a Gravity lamp which was powered by a series of weights that slid down to the floor and had to be replaced at the top again. The pull of gravity is endless and as long as the human element keeps placing the specific weights on top.

While the gravity based lamp is not yet ready for mass production, the technology can definitely be improved upon. So what are you waiting for? Get going on your own version of a gravity powered device for your science fair project today.