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I heavily researched solar energy for my senior project. I wanted to know how the worked, from particles to connections. In the senior project paper listed to the right, one can see the development of solar energy.
Other Information:
A solar panel is a device that collects and converts solar energy into electricity or heat which can be used by (for example) nearby buildings. Solar photovoltaic panels can be made so that the sun's energy excites the atoms in a silicon layer between two protector panels. Electrons from these excited atoms form an Electric Current, which can be used by external devices. Solar panels were in use over one hundred years ago for water heating homes. Solar panels can also be made with a specially shaped mirror that concentrates light onto a tube of oil. The oil then heats up, and travels through a vat of water, instantly boiling it. The steam created turns a turbine for power.
Solar panels can provide both active and passive warming methods for housing.
A passive solar heating system angles the rooftop of a house so that during the winter, the suns rays enter the glass substrate of the house, while the high insulation of the walls keeps the heat inside. During the summer, the suns rays are blocked, keeping the house cool inside.
An active solar heating system uses mechanical/electrical devices, such as heaters, to pump a fluid that will conduct the heat throughout the house.
Passive systems are cheaper, but require more structural design to accomodate the heating. An active solar heating system is more expensive, but can be implemented into any household, regardless of design.
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