Lesson 10b - Solar Power

Question 1

Which regions receive a net surplus/deficit of solar energy?

Answer 1

Surplus - Tropics
Deficit - High latitude zones

Question 2

What are the 3 primary uses of solar power?

Answer 2

Solar water heaters
Solar cookers
PV cells

Question 3

What are PV cells?

Answer 3

Photovoltaic cells
Convert light energy into electricity

Question 4

How do solar cookers work?

Answer 4

Concentrate sunlight
Convert to heat energy
Trap energy for use in cooking

Question 5

Why does the energy output of a PV cell vary?

Answer 5

Output is dependent on light input
Higher intensity, higher output
Sunlight rich regions more productive

Question 6

What are the disadvantages of solar power?

Answer 6

Equipment production releases CO2
PV cell costs
High initial investment
Relatively low conversion efficiency
Climate dependency

Question 7

What are the benefits of solar power?

Answer 7

Emissions free
Sustainable
Accessibility

Question 8

Assess the contribution of solar power to energy security?

Answer 8

Reduces import reliance
Conserves finite supplies
Rising temperatures => Higher output