There are many different types of energy on our planet, from motion and potential to chemicals and sound. Each has unique energy properties and processes that make aspects of life possible, including driving a car or starting a fire.
The main source of energy on earth is the sun. Life on earth continues thanks to the sun. Solar energy can be converted into electricity with the help of various technologies such as solar panels.
But how do solar panels work? Here's everything you need to know about solar energy and solar or photovoltaic technology.
What is solar energy?
Solar energy is energy that comes from the sun. It is produced in a process called nuclear fusion.
Nuclear fusion is a reaction that occurs in the Sun and other stars and creates energy. At the center of the Sun, hydrogen molecules will collide due to the great pressure and density. The energy of this collision is enough to form a new element, helium. When these molecules combine, energy is released from the rest of the mass.
The resulting solar energy is released from the Sun in the form of waves and particles that travel through the Solar System. According to National Geographic, heat, light, and energy are all forms of electromagnetic radiation.
Solar energy is responsible for powering many things, including air, weather, plants, and animals.
How do solar panels work?
Solar cells, also known as photovoltaic panels, convert sunlight into electricity. According to the Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Agency, the amount of sunlight hitting the Earth's surface every 30 minutes is enough to power our planet for a year.
Sunlight contains photons, a form of electromagnetic radiation. When sunlight hits the ground and solar panels, energy is absorbed.
According to the Department of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, solar panels consist of many photovoltaic cells that each produce one to two watts of power. Each cell, like a battery, consists of a semiconductor material containing negative and positive receptors. A group of solar cells is called a "solar cell".
When sunlight hits a solar cell, it releases electrons from the semiconductor. This creates an electric current. Then electrical energy is collected and released from the negative and positive sides of the cell.
The amount of electricity produced depends on the number of cells in each panel - more photocells, more electricity.
How hot is the sun? Feel the incredible temperature of the surface, the core of the star
Is solar energy renewable?
Yes, solar energy is renewable energy. In fact, according to the Solar Energy Association, it is "the cleanest and most abundant source of renewable energy."
Solar energy can also be converted into heat or electricity.
According to the United Nations, other examples of renewable energy sources are wind energy, geothermal energy, hydroelectricity, ocean energy, and bioenergy.
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