PV Gap

Catherine Said:

Which process best shows the conversion of solar energy to chemical energy?

We Answered:

photosynthesis- number 2

Dennis Said:

Conversion of solar energy to chemical energy is what process?

We Answered:

photosynthesis converts solar energy to glucose, a carbohydrate

Cassandra Said:

What is a good solar energy conversion rate? 15%?

We Answered:

It would help if you posted a link to the panel you plan to buy. I'm concerned when I hear unusual terms like "solar energy conversion rate," because they could be marketing terms, not describing what we think they say. One company used similar terms to describe % of the theoretical quantum efficiency. In other words, that 16% number may really be 5% conversion efficiency.

If the panel in question is really 16% conversion efficiency, that's quite good.

Andre Said:

Physics question about solar energy conversion. Please help!!?

We Answered:

My buddy has solar at his house since he's trying off the grid living and I think he and I can help. Though since this is in a text book it's kind of a stupid question and not at all real world solar but here goes:

The sun is sending 200 Watts per square meter but your solar cells are only 10% efficient right? So multiplied through you're only going to get 20 Watts of power per square meter.

Now the question is how many square meters of solar panels do you need to generate 3000 Watts (3KW) of power? Well divide 3000 by 20 and you get 150 square meters.

Also I thought days had 24 hours, man am I behind on things....