A Drop of Water, Mercury & Electricity. 1826 Electrowetting

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Electrowetting is the modification of the wetting properties of a surface (which is typically hydrophobic) with an applied electric field. Currently a subject of much research, its applications include high refresh rate e-paper and variable focus liquid lens systems. In an 1826 article by Brewster on fluid inclusions in mineral crystals, this effect is mentioned in passing.

That's all that's mentioned about this phenomenon. Here's the full article, but it's heavy going if you're not into fluid inclusions -

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Unrelated to this post, below is an example of

eclectic science esoterica 

©Jorge Royan

Lavoisier Optics 1775

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WARNING - Many subjects outlined within this site are extremely dangerous and are provided here for information only. Please don`t experiment with high voltages or chemicals unless you are fully conversant with safe laboratory practices. No liability will be accepted for death, injury or damage arising from experimentation using any information or materials supplied.