Solar Energy Quiz

What is the total solar energy absorbed by Earth's atmosphere, oceans, and land masses per year?

• 2,000,000 exajoules (EJ)

• 5,000,000 exajoules (EJ)

• 1,000,000 exajoules (EJ)

• 3,850,000 exajoules (EJ)

Which of the following is NOT a benefit of solar energy?

• Natural daylighting

• Thermal energy

• High carbon release

• Photovoltaic

What is the primary function of a heat pump in a solar thermal energy system?

• To generate electricity

• To cool the building

• To extract heat from solar transfer fluid

• To store solar energy

Why are solar collectors typically placed on the roofs of buildings?

• To increase building height

• To avoid obstructed sunlight

• To reduce installation costs

• To enhance aesthetic appeal

What type of solar collector uses a vacuum to minimize heat loss?

• Evacuated tube collector

• Flat plate collector

• Point focus collector

• Line focus collector

Which of the following statements about photovoltaic cells is true?

• They generate electricity by heating water.

• They are primarily made of silicon semiconductors.

• They require mirrors to concentrate sunlight.

• They are used in solar thermal power plants.

What is a significant drawback of solar energy systems mentioned in the text?

• They are not renewable.

• They require fossil fuels.

• They have a long return on investment due to high equipment costs.

• They are environmentally harmful.

How do parabolic troughs function in solar thermal power plants?

• They store heat for later use.

• They generate electricity directly from sunlight.

• They reflect and concentrate sunlight onto a pipe.

• They cool the surrounding environment.

What is the role of insulation in solar energy systems?

• To reduce equipment costs

• To enhance aesthetic appeal

• To minimize heat losses

• To increase energy output

What is a unique characteristic of Stirling engines in solar power generation?

• They can convert solar energy to electricity with high efficiency.

• They do not require tracking the sun.

• They require no external heat source.

• They are primarily used in residential applications.