Siberian Scientists Invent Jumping, Color-Changing Crystals

Scientists from the international tomographic center of the Siberian branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences have created new materials that can jump and change color under the influence of several factors, the branch’s publication said Wednesday.

NOVOSIBIRSK (Sputnik) – According to the Science in Siberia publication, the new materials react to irradiation and temperature. It is believed to be  possible to create sensors that would react to radiation on the basis of these new materials.

"If they are left in normal conditions, for example on a table, they will begin jumping spontaneously for two-three months," Viktor Ovcharenko, the head of the tomographic center, said.

According to the scientist, the crystals start jumping as the compounds decompose and release oxygen which has built up in the crystals. As internal tension increases, the oxygen reserves explode.

The color of the crystals becomes deeper as external temperatures drop. This effect could become very useful in designing equipment for working in very low temperatures, according to Ovcharenko, making the inventions applicable for use in space and the Arctic.