Evaporation Engine (IMAGE) Columbia University Caption The evaporation engine floats on the surface of water. It creates piston-like back and forth motion as the water evaporates from the surface. The movement of the engine produces electricity when connected to a generator. Credit Xi Chen, Columbia University Usage Restrictions None License Licensed content Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.