1
The Sun
What do solar panels get from the Sun?
Light and energy
What is the first step in producing electricity with solar power?
Sunlight shines on the solar panels.
Name one place where solar panels can be installed.
Rooftops
What is solar energy?
Solar power is the energy from the Sun that is converted into thermal or electrical energy.
What natural material is commonly used to make solar cells?
Silicon
What part of a solar panel converts sunlight into electrical energy?
Solar cells
Why do solar panels produce little to no electricity at night?
Because there is no sunlight reaching the solar cells.
Is solar energy renewable or nonrenewable?
Renewable
What resource provides the sunlight needed for Solar Power?
What happens to electrons when sunlight hits a solar cell?
They gain energy and move, creating an electric current.
Can solar panels generate electricity on a cloudy day?
Yes, but usually at a lower output.
Name one advantage of using solar energy
It can produce electricity without burning fossil fuels or any other answer that works
Where is silicon found naturally?
In sand, rocks, and Earth's crust.
What energy transformation happens in a solar panel?
Light energy -> Electrical energy
What are two factors that can affect how much electricity solar panels produce?
Amount of sunlight and weather conditions
Name one disadvantage of using solar energy.
It depends on sunlight and producees little to no electricity during the night.
Why is sunlight considered a renewable resource?
Because the Sun continually provides sunlight, which is naturally replenished
How does a solar panel generate electricity from sunlight?
Sunlight hits the solar cells, causing electrons to move and creating an electric current.
Explain how solar power can be both low cost and high cost.
The systems have no moving parts, and the maintanence is usually limited, however the cost is high upfront, so the installation of the system requires significant investments.