The solar energy industry involves professionals studying geothermal energy, scientists looking to store solar energy better, and manufacturers improving quality control. The industry relies on government funding and activism to achieve global freedom from fossil fuels. The main focus is on finding ways to harness and conserve solar energy, with the potential for a tennis […]
A solar golf cart is a small vehicle used on golf courses or in enclosed areas, seating up to four adults. It can be partially solar-powered with a solar panel on top and can have a low or high top speed, depending on its purpose and design. A solar golf cart is a type of […]
Passive solar buildings use natural heat and light from the sun to reduce energy consumption. They are designed to maximize sun exposure for heating in cold climates and minimize it in warm climates. They may include features like solar water heaters and natural lighting. Passive solar design reduces energy costs and protects the environment. A […]
In 1979, President Jimmy Carter installed solar panels in the White House in response to the oil shocks of the 1970s. President Reagan had them removed in 1986. Half of the panels were later installed on a college roof, and President Obama reinstalled solar panels in 2010. In 1979, President Jimmy Carter installed 32 solar […]
Solar cables connect solar panels to other electrical devices to transmit electricity generated from sunlight. They are flexible, rated for a temperature range of -40°C to 90°C, and have a maximum allowable DC current voltage of 1.8 kV. They are designed to resist UV light, harsh weather, and are halogen-free, flame retardant, and resistant to […]
The Sunsphere is a 266m glass structure in Knoxville, Tennessee, built for the 1982 World’s Fair. It has five levels, including two observation decks and restaurant levels. The structure has been used for various purposes, including as a welcome center, private offices, and event space. Despite proposals for redevelopment, the structure remained unused until a […]
California’s surplus of solar energy has led to neighboring states receiving free energy and lower utility bills. Solar panel prices have decreased by 99% since 1977 and the US has over 2 million solar installations, expected to reach 4 million by 2023. A Swiss pilot flew the first fully solar-powered aircraft in 2016. California’s state […]
A solar chimney is a passive ventilation system that can be used in any climate. It consists of a chimney that draws hot air up, promoting even circulation of air and providing relief for people inside. It can also be modified to generate electricity. Solar chimneys can be used in cold climates to cool homes […]
A solar farm uses sunlight to produce electricity through photovoltaic cells or concentrated solar thermal energy. They are usually located in flat areas with clear skies and strong sunlight, often in desert areas. Solar energy is considered better for the environment, but construction can have an environmental impact. A solar farm, also known as a […]
Solar cookers use the sun’s rays to cook food. They can be made with simple materials like boxes, aluminum foil, and black construction paper. The cooker should be lined with foil and paper to absorb and reflect heat. It can take longer to cook than a conventional oven. Solar cookers, also known as solar ovens, […]
Solar energy is becoming increasingly popular, with many buildings converting for efficiency and cost reasons. The expanding field offers various career opportunities, including sales, installation, design, and maintenance. Some jobs may require additional training, and starting salaries may be lower, but future salary gains are possible. New methods, such as photovoltaic paint, are being developed […]
Solar thermal engineers design, construct, and maintain solar thermal power generation systems. They manage heat transfer to electrical current, oversee facility operations, comply with regulations, and conduct site planning. They can work on large commercial projects or smaller residential systems. A solar thermal engineer develops or manages the generation of electricity through solar thermal energy. […]
A solar shower is a bag filled with water that is heated by the sun, allowing for an easy and convenient outdoor shower. It can be used while camping or in rural areas, and can also be installed before construction is completed. The simplest type is a small bag with a tap and hose, while […]
The solar plexus chakra is the third energy center in the Hindu chakra system, associated with the liver and pancreas, and represented by the color yellow. It is linked to the manifestation of ego tendencies and can cause physical and mental imbalances if dysfunctional. Meditators use aromatherapy and color therapy to balance it. The solar […]
New flexible solar panels called nantennas can collect up to 90% of available light, compared to traditional panels that only collect about 20%. Solar energy usage has increased significantly, and the Earth absorbs 3,850,000 exajoules of solar energy each year. The first solar-powered home was built in 1939. Most solar panels collect only about a […]
Verona Rupes on Uranus’ moon Miranda is the steepest cliff in the solar system, with a 12-mile elevation gain. Miranda’s surface is strange and fuzzy due to intense tectonic activity, and Verona Rupes cuts 4% into the moon’s surface. A skydiver with padding or airbags could survive a jump from the summit, falling for 12 […]
The solar system formed 4.6 billion years ago from a collapsing molecular cloud, with the Sun and planets forming at the same time. Planets formed by accretion, with rocky planets closer to the Sun and gas giants farther away. Jupiter’s gravity created the asteroid belt, and beyond that is the Kuiper belt and interstellar space. […]
Solar prominences are dense clouds of ionized gas held in place by the sun’s magnetic field. They are part of the sun’s solar activity cycle and can be active or quiescent. They can span thousands of kilometers and are visible during a total solar eclipse. They are often confused with solar flares. Solar prominences have […]
Solar radiation is the spectrum of light emitted by the sun due to nuclear fusion in its core. It is studied for its effects on Earth’s weather and astronomy. Only a small fraction of solar radiation reaches Earth, but it is still much greater than energy consumed on Earth. Solar radiation is measured in watts […]
Passive solar uses windows and insulation to keep homes warm using the sun’s rays. South-facing windows and heat-collecting walls or floors are key, and awnings can prevent overheating. Passive solar is an approach to keeping a home warm by taking advantage of the sun’s rays. It differs from other solar technologies because it is basically […]
