Location via proxy:   [ UP ]  
[Report a bug]   [Manage cookies]                
Scribd
Upload
2 views

Assignment One

The document is an assignment from a Bachelor of Science in Education program discussing solar energy generation, its applications, advantages, and the concept of solar resources. It explains how the sun generates energy through nuclear fusion and how solar energy travels to Earth as electromagnetic radiation. Additionally, it outlines the uses of solar energy in various sectors, including domestic, industrial, space exploration, agriculture, and electricity generation, while also addressing factors that influence solar resource quality and quantity.

Uploaded by

anthonyerindabo01
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
2 views

Assignment One

The document is an assignment from a Bachelor of Science in Education program discussing solar energy generation, its applications, advantages, and the concept of solar resources. It explains how the sun generates energy through nuclear fusion and how solar energy travels to Earth as electromagnetic radiation. Additionally, it outlines the uses of solar energy in various sectors, including domestic, industrial, space exploration, agriculture, and electricity generation, while also addressing factors that influence solar resource quality and quantity.

Uploaded by

anthonyerindabo01
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
You are on page 1/ 4

MUNI UNIVERSITY

Bachelor of science with Education

Faculty of Science
Department of Physics

Yerindabo Anthony
2022/U/SMP/00286

2201200286

YEAR III SEMESTER II

ASSIGNMENT ONE

Lecturer
Dr. E. Bwayo

February 13, 2025


TASK

1. Discuss how the sun and other stars generate solar energy. Give a detailed explain
of how solar energy travels from sun to earth

2. Briefly explain the applications of solar energy with respect to;

(a) Domestic and industrial use


(b) Space exploration
(c) Agriculture
(d) Electricity generation

3. What are advantages of using solar energy?

4. (a) What is meant by a solar resource?


(b) State the factors that determine the quality and quantity of solar resource

1
Solutions

Question One

The sun generates energy through a process called nuclear fusion. In the core of the
sun, hydrogen atoms fuse to form helium, releasing a tremendous amount of energy in
the form of light and heat. This process occurs under extreme pressure and temperature
conditions.

How the solar energy travels from sun to earth

The energy, heat and light from the sun flow in form of electromagnetic radiations (EMR).
The electromagnetic spectrum exists as waves of different frequencies and wavelengths.
These electromagnetic waves travel through the five layers of the atmosphere which in-
clude; Troposphere, Stratosphere, Mesosphere, Thermosphere and exosphere.

The vast majority of electromagnetic waves are invisible to us. The most high-frequency
waves emitted by the sun are gamma rays, X-rays, and ultraviolet radiations.The most
harmful UV rays are almost completely absorbed by earth’s Mesosphere, Thermosphere
and less potent UV travel through the Troposphere and Stratosphere to reach the earth’s
surface.

The sun also emits infrared radiations whose waves are of much lower frequency. Most
heat from the sun arrives as infrared energy. Sandwiched between infrared and UV is
the visible spectrum which contains all the colours we see on earth. Colour red has the
longest wavelength and Violet has the shortest wavelength.

Question Two

(a) Domestic and industrial use


Solar energy is used for heating water, powering appliances, and providing electricity
through solar panels. In industries, it can power machinery and reduce reliance on
fossil fuels.

(b) Space exploration


Solar panels are used to power satellites and spacecraft, providing energy for instru-
ments and communication systems. They are essential for missions beyond Earth,
where other energy sources are not feasible.

(c) Agriculture
Solar energy is utilized in agriculture for irrigation systems, greenhouse heating, ac-
celerating photosynthesis, and powering equipment. It helps in reducing operational
costs and promoting sustainable farming practices.

(d) Electricity generation


Solar energy is converted into electricity using photovoltaic cells in solar panels.
This electricity can be used for residential, commercial, and utility-scale power
generation, contributing to the grid.

2
Question Three

Advantages of solar energy

- Renewable:Solar energy is abundant and inexhaustible.

- Environmentally Friendly: It reduces greenhouse gas emissions and pollution.

- Low Operating Costs: Once installed, solar systems have low maintenance costs.

- Energy Independence: Reduces reliance on fossil fuels and enhances energy


security.

- Job Creation: The solar industry creates jobs in manufacturing, installation, and
maintenance.

Question Four

(a) A solar resource refers to the amount of solar energy available at a specific location
over a given time period. It is measured in terms of solar irradiance (power per
unit area) and solar insolation (energy received over time).

(b) Factors affecting quantity and quality of solar resource.

- Geographical Location: Latitude and altitude affect solar exposure.


- Weather Conditions: Cloud cover, humidity, and atmospheric conditions in-
fluence solar radiation.
- Seasonal Variations: The angle of the sun changes with seasons, affecting solar
energy availability.
- Time of Day: Solar energy is highest when the sun is at its peak (midday).
- Surface Orientation: The angle and direction of solar panels impact energy
capture efficiency.

You might also like