Solar Energy
Liam Thomas
6 min read
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Study Guide Overview
This study guide covers solar energy as a renewable energy source, focusing on how it works, its advantages and disadvantages, and its relevance to the AP exam. Key concepts include photovoltaic (PV) cells, the photovoltaic effect, and the process of converting sunlight into electricity. It also compares solar energy to other energy sources and explores the environmental and economic aspects of solar energy use, including manufacturing and lifecycle considerations.
#Solar Energy: Harnessing the Power of the Sun 🌞
Solar energy is a renewable energy source derived directly from the sun. It's a cornerstone of sustainable energy, and understanding it is crucial for the AP exam. This section will cover how it works, its pros and cons, and its role in the bigger picture.
#How Solar Energy Works
Solar energy is captured using solar panels made of photovoltaic (PV) cells. These cells convert sunlight directly into electricity. Historically, civilizations used similar principles with glass and sunlight to start fires; now, modern technology allows us to power entire cities!
Photovoltaic cells are the heart of solar energy. They are typically made of purified silicon and trace metals that act as semiconductors. When sunlight (photons) hits these cells, electrons are knocked loose, creating an electrical current. This is the photovoltaic effect.
#Image Courtesy of The Verge
Think of PV cells like tiny solar-powered batteries. Sunlight hits them, electrons get excited and start moving, and that movement is electricity! ⚡
#The Process Simplified
- Sunlight In: Photons from the sun strike the PV cells.
- **El...
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