Symptoms would normally occur very soon after drinking the water, but if the gut is absorbing the water more slowly then it can take longer.

BBC: Why is too much water dangerous?

Mr Griffiths explained that his department "can be more intelligent" using the natural environment to defend against floods, using "means of absorbing water rather than having it run off" land.

BBC: Environment and Sustainability Committee

These have traditionally played the role of water-catchment areas, absorbing any overflow from the river.

CNN: FIGHTING FLOODS

Beyond these patches are acres of open water that used to be storm-absorbing marshland.

NPR: Sabine Refuge Still Reeling from Rita's Wrath

Water is much more efficient than air at absorbing heat and so even with tiny amounts of liquid flowing through the system the researchers saw a significant effect.

BBC: IBM aims to cool chips with water

Acetic acid in the vinegar delays stomach-emptying and acts as an antidiuretic, remaining in the hung-over body longer than water, and allowing it to rehydrate by absorbing salt and electrolytes in the brine.

WSJ: Half Full: The Power of the Pickleback

This cover acts as a giant sponge, absorbing rainfall and reducing polluted storm-water runoff.

FORBES: Magazine Article

First, simply by absorbing sunlight, algae floating on the surface warm the water.

ECONOMIST: Aerobiology

Well, the magical moisture-absorbing material may get even better, as the plan is to increase the amount of water the material can hold and lower the temperature threshold for its release.

ENGADGET

Besides absorbing light, the pigments can neutralise free radicals directly, help cells to hold on to their water, and even act as an antifreeze.

ECONOMIST: The science of autumn