Energy transfer in solar panels

In summary, Compound A has a higher albedo value and lower emissivity compared to Compound B. However, based on calculations with incident sunlight of 1000W, Compound B reaches a higher temperature and emits more energy at thermal equilibrium. This may suggest that Compound B is a more effective energy transferrer, but more analysis is needed to fully understand the situation.
  • #1
ZanyCat
21
0
Compound A has an albedo value (visible spectrum) of 0.08, and an emissivity (infrared) of 0.08.
Compound B has an albedo value of 0.04 and an emissivity of 0.88, in the same spectrums.

We need to explain why A is more effective at transferring energy to the water flowing behind it, when used as a coating on a solar panel.

So far, I've determined that (imagining the incident sunlight is, say, 1000W)...

- B reaches a higher temperature when at thermal equilibirum
- B reflects 40W, absorbs 960W, and thus emits 960W at thermal equilibirum
- A reflects 80W, absorbs 920W, and thus emits 920W at thermal equilbirum

So B is both at a higher temp (and thus has a higher transfer of energy by Newton's law of cooling) and it's also emitting 960W, as opposed to 920W for A.
So everything seems to be pointing to B as a more effective energy transferrer.
Where am I going wrong?

Thanks :)
 
Last edited:
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  • #2
This is falling quickly off the front page so I'm going to be petulent and bump it.
Didn't post any formulas because alfredo/reflectivity and emissivity are pretty much just ratios.
 

1. How do solar panels convert sunlight into energy?

Solar panels use photovoltaic cells made of silicon to absorb photons from sunlight. These photons knock electrons loose from the atoms in the silicon, creating an electric current that can be harnessed as energy.

2. What is the efficiency of solar panels?

The efficiency of solar panels varies, but the average efficiency of commercially available panels is around 15-20%. This means that about 15-20% of the sunlight that hits the panel is converted into usable energy.

3. How much energy can a solar panel produce?

The amount of energy a solar panel can produce depends on its size, efficiency, and the amount of sunlight it receives. On average, a residential solar panel can produce about 250-350 watts of power per hour.

4. How does energy transfer occur in solar panels?

Energy transfer in solar panels occurs through the movement of electrons. As photons from sunlight strike the photovoltaic cells, they knock electrons loose, creating an electric current. This current then flows through the wiring in the panel and can be used as energy.

5. Are solar panels a reliable source of energy?

Yes, solar panels are a reliable source of energy. They can produce electricity as long as they are exposed to sunlight and do not require any moving parts, making them less prone to mechanical failures. With proper maintenance, solar panels can last for 25-30 years.

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