Spring 2010 Issue
Solar Energy: How it WorksBy Amelia Hardeman |
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What is Solar Energy? Solar energy is the energy provided by the sun. Once turned into thermal energy it can be used for: -Heating water- used in homes, building -Heating spaces- homes, building, greenhouses |
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Things That Use Solar EnergyTop Ten: 1. Homes for electricity savings 2. Industrial applications in remote locations 3. Water heating 4. Water pumping 5. Streets lighting 6. Home heating 7. Central power stations 8. Solar gadgets 9. Water purification 10. Food Drying |
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How it works!!!!!!!! Solar energy uses solar panels to collect its energy. It uses photovoltaic cells to make electricity. Solar panels are made by slicing crystalline silicon into extremely small circles (Tatum, 2003). |
History! Greeks and Romans first “invented” solar energy. Solar energy started in 7th century B.C. A scientist in Paris more than 100 years ago used heat from a solar collector to make steam to drive a steam engine. Then later on, scientist would research how to use solar energy. They found that solar energy could be used to heat water. The solar water heater soon became very popular in Florida, California, and the Southwest. This lasted until the mid-1950's. |
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