Solar Cells: Renewable Energy

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Questions and Answers

Which of the following is a direct energy conversion process performed by solar cells?

  • Chemical energy to electrical energy
  • Solar energy to electrical energy (correct)
  • Mechanical energy to electrical energy
  • Thermal energy to electrical energy

What is the primary function of semiconductors within solar cells?

  • To store excess energy for later use
  • To convert solar energy directly into electrical energy (correct)
  • To filter specific wavelengths of light
  • To regulate the temperature of the solar cell

Why is the development and use of solar cells considered a modern method for preserving the environment?

  • They directly reduce pollution from the use of fossil fuels. (correct)
  • They are visually appealing and promote green initiatives.
  • They eliminate the need for traditional power grids.
  • They are made from recyclable materials.

Benban Station in Aswan is notable for what specific characteristic?

<p>It is considered the capital of solar energy and has a high megawatt capacity. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In a photocell, what initiates the flow of electrical current?

<p>The displacement of electrons by photons of light (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How is the efficiency of a solar cell typically determined?

<p>By comparing the electrical energy produced to the light energy input. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What factors can affect the ability of a solar cell to consistently generate electricity throughout the day?

<p>The angle of the sun's rays, and environmental conditions like clouds and humidity. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary goal of using nanotechnology in the development of solar cells?

<p>To enhance the ability of materials to absorb sunlight. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

If a solar cell converts all light energy that falls on it into electrical energy, what is its efficiency?

<p>100% (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What formula accurately calculates the efficiency of a solar cell?

<p><code>(Electrical power produced / optical power falling on the cell) x 100</code> (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What characterizes solar water heaters in terms of their performance and utility?

<p>High efficiency in heating water and significant reduction in electricity usage (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How do solar-powered air conditioners benefit residents of hot countries?

<p>They significantly reduce electricity consumption. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a primary advantage of using solar lamps for home use?

<p>They offer an environmentally friendly lighting alternative during power outages. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is wind energy considered an environmentally friendly alternative energy source?

<p>Because it converts wind energy into clean electrical energy. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What causes the turbine blades in a wind turbine to move?

<p>The movement of air creating different atmospheric pressure on opposite sides of the blades. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a critical factor in determining the efficiency of wind turbines?

<p>The speed of wind movement in the area. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why are dams essential for hydroelectric power generation?

<p>To store water and create potential energy. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In the context of hydroelectric power, what role do turbines play?

<p>They convert the energy of falling water into mechanical rotation. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of electrical generators in a hydroelectric power plant?

<p>To convert mechanical energy from the turbines into electrical energy. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Considering the operational principles of solar cells, wind turbines, and hydroelectric dams, what is a common characteristic that allows them to be classified as renewable energy sources?

<p>They use resources that are naturally replenished. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Renewable resources

Resources that can be used repeatedly and are naturally replaced, such as solar, wind, hydro, geothermal, and biomass energy.

Solar cells

Devices made of semiconductors that convert solar energy directly into electrical energy.

Photocell operation

When light hits a semiconductor like silicon, photons displace electrons creating a potential difference and electrical current.

Solar cell efficiency

Compares electrical energy produced to light energy received; perfect conversion is 100% but is not achievable in reality.

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Electrical energy and power

Electrical energy (E) is product of voltage, current, and time (E=VIt), measured in joules. Power (P) is energy per second, measured in Watts (P=VI).

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Solar cell efficiency calculation

Efficiency is ratio of electrical power produced to optical power received, expressed as a percentage.

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Solar water heaters

Uses solar energy to heat water for home use, reducing electricity consumption with high efficiency.

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Solar air conditioners

Reduces electricity use in hot climates; convenient for residents in hot countries.

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Solar lamps

Illuminate and decorate gardens; work by storing solar energy so they're a reliable alternative during blackouts and use less electricity.

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Wind Energy

Converts wind energy into clean electrical energy using wind turbines with blades connected to generators.

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Hydroelectric power

Dams store water, creating potential energy. Water flow rotates turbines, which power generators converting energy into electricity.

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Study Notes

  • Renewable resources can be used repeatedly and are naturally replaced
  • Examples of renewable resources are solar, wind, hydro, geothermal, and biomass energy

Solar Cells

  • Solar cells are made of semiconductors that convert solar energy directly into electrical energy
  • Using solar cells helps preserve the environment and reduce pollution from fossil fuels.
  • The BENBAN STATION in Aswan is considered the capital of solar energy.
  • It consists of 32 solar stations with a capacity of 1465 megawatts.
  • Photons in light displace electrons on the surface of a semiconductor, creating a potential difference
  • This potential difference can create an electric current if connected to an external circuit.
  • A solar cell's efficiency is determined by comparing the electrical energy produced to the light energy from the sun.
  • 100% efficiency is only possible if the cell converts all light energy into electrical energy
  • The ability of a solar cell to generate electricity varies based on the angle of the sun's rays, clouds, and environmental factors like wind, dust, and humidity
  • Nanotechnology can improve the efficiency of solar cells by using materials that absorb sunlight more efficiently
  • Electrical energy (E) is calculated in joules using the formula E = VIt, where:
    • V is voltage in volts (V)
    • I is current in amperes (A)
    • t is time in seconds (s)
  • Power (P) is measured in watts (W), representing energy produced or consumed per second, and is calculated as P = VI
  • Solar cell efficiency calculation: (electrical power produced / optical power falling on the cell) x 100

Devices Using Solar Energy

  • Solar energy can be used in devices, such as:
    • Solar heaters
      • Used to heat water for multiple purposes, reducing electricity use and high efficency
    • Air Conditioners
      • Solar-powered air conditioners reduce electricity consumption
    • Solar Lamps
      • Used to illuminate and decorate gardens and can serve as an alternative source of lighting using less electricity and are automatic

Wind Energy

  • Wind energy is a clean electrical energy
  • It relies on wind turbines, which have blades, turbines, and generators
  • Air flows over the blades, creating different pressure zones that cause the blades to move
  • The turbine blades are connected to a generator that converts kinetic energy into electrical energy
  • Efficient wind turbines are built in open areas such as deserts and high altitude areas, that have higher wind speeds.

Hydroelectric Power

  • Dams store water in a reservoir, giving it potential energy
  • Gates on the dam control water flow
  • When gates open, water flows downstream and rotates turbines
  • The turbine generate electrical energy.

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