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answer: direct
beat: science
source: 1 article · updated: November 6, 2026
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Did the Rice experiment create more energy than it used?

No. The device released heat accumulated during a steady input over a shorter interval. Its peak thermal power rose because stored energy was delivered faster, not because energy was created.

Answered in

Rice’s Heat Q-Switch Stores a Steady Stream for a Brief Burst

Rice engineers built a fluidic device that stores heat as water flows, then releases a thermal pulse. The extra power comes from stored energy.

Crashtech Editorial November 6, 2026 Science

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