Relating solar energy area to power/time?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the area of a solar collector needed to collect a specific amount of energy over a given time period, using the intensity of solar energy striking the Earth at midday. The key relationship established is that power is defined as energy per time, allowing for the conversion of energy requirements into area calculations based on the solar intensity provided. The problem emphasizes understanding the relationship between power (in watts) and energy (in joules) to derive the necessary area for energy collection.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of solar energy intensity (W/m²)
  • Basic knowledge of power and energy relationships (Power = Energy/Time)
  • Familiarity with units of measurement (Joules, Watts, Megajoules)
  • Ability to manipulate equations for area calculation
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  • Research solar energy intensity calculations and their applications
  • Learn about energy conversion and efficiency in solar collectors
  • Explore the principles of power calculations in physics
  • Study real-world examples of solar collector sizing and performance
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Students in physics or engineering, renewable energy enthusiasts, and professionals involved in solar energy system design and optimization.

Tineras
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Homework Statement



Given Information:

At midday, solar energy strikes the Earth with an intensity of about xxxW/m^2

Question:

What is the area of a solar collector that could collect xxxMJ of energy in xxxHours ?


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



I'm having difficulty relating the two pieces of information. I have been staring at this problem for quite some time and haven't gotten anywhere. Any information would be helpful. I left out the number because I'm more interested in knowing how to solve the problem than I am getting the answer.

Thanks
 
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Well what precisely are you given? You're given power per unit area, and what's power? Energy per time. Specifically, you know in an area of 1 m^2, there are xxx joules per second, which is one way to interpret that information
 

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