FORM 2-PHYSICS-TOPIC 9-SUSTAINABLE ENERGY SOURCES
SUSTAINABLE ENERGY SOURCES
Sustainable energy, specifically renewable energy or green energy, is an energy source which can be replenished, that is essentially inexhaustible. Sustainable sources of energy include solar, wind, water, biomass and geothermal. Non renewable energy sources include coal, oil and natural gas.
Solar energyrefers to the energy obtained from the sun by the use of solar cells.
The Sun as a Source of Energy
Explain the sun as a source of energy
We consume energy in dozens of forms.Yet virtually all of the energy we use originates in the power of the atom. Nuclear reactions energize stars, including our Sun. The energy we capture for use on Earth comes largely from the Sun or from nuclear forces local to our own planet.
Sunlight is by far the predominant source, and it contains a surprisingly large amount of energy. On average, even after passing through hundreds of kilometers of air on a clear day, solar radiation reaches Earth with more than enough energy in a single square meter to illuminate five 60-watt lightbulbs if all the sunlight could be captured and converted toelectricity.
The Conversion of Solar Energy to Electric Energy
Explain the conversion of Solar energy to electric Energy
The energy produced by the sun is more than we need. Solar energy can be converted to electricity by using solar cells or photo voltaic cells. The main surface of solar panel is dull black. This enhances the absorption rate of the radiant energy from the sun.
Applications of solar energy
Solar energy has been harnessed by mankind and put to several uses. Below are some of the applications of solar energy:
- It is used in electric appliances such as television and radios
- For lighting purposes
- Spaceship satellites use solar cells
- Some torches, cars and calculators are powered by solar cells
- Drying of clothes and farm (food) products.
- Heating water using a solar hot water system
Though solar cells are expensive, they are very useful in remote and sunny areas.
A Model of Solar Panel
Construct a model of solar panel
A model solar panel
