Earth Sun Geometry Activity-1 meister
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School
University of Kansas *
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Course
104
Subject
Geography
Date
Dec 6, 2023
Type
docx
Pages
4
Uploaded by BaronDugongPerson1540
Part 1.
The following diagram illustrates the differences in how solar energy interacts with the curved surface of the Earth. Given
that the cross sectional area of the Sun rays is the same (1 m x 1 m) for both locations, calculate the power or energy
density, hitting the Earth at A and B.
1370m
1370/25= 54.8m
Part 2.
In the diagrams below, label the following:
North Pole
South Pole
Equator
Tropic of Cancer
Tropic of Capricorn
Arctic Circle
Antarctic Circle
Sub Solar Point
Circle of Illumination (indicate what half is illuminated)
DECEMBER 21
Subsolar
Point
Antarctic Circle
Arctic circle
Tropic of Capricorn
Tropic of cancer
EQUATOR
SOUTH POLE
NORTH POLE
JUNE 21
Part 3.
A home owner is wondering whether she should install a geothermal heating and cooling system, or whether a solar-
powered system is a better option. To help her make a decision, answer the following questions. You can use Internet
resources to find answers.
What is the energy density of incoming solar radiation at the top of the atmosphere?
Sun is about 1,360 watts per square meter
What is the incoming solar radiation averaged over an entire year?
Averaged over an entire year, approximately 342 watts of solar energy fall upon every square meter of Earth.
Explain the difference between these two numbers.
There is a greater amount of energy in the atmosphere because as the energy continues to travel it loses some.
So by the time the energy is transferred it would have lost some energy.
List some of the disadvantages of using solar energy for heating purposes.
NORTH POLE
SUB SOLAR
POINT
SOUTH POLE
Antarctic Circle
Artic circle
Tropic of Capricorn
Tropic of cancer
Equator
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The high initial costs of installing panels. The most commonly cited solar energy disadvantage, cost, is
declining as the industry expands.
o
Solar energy storage is expensive.
o
Solar doesn't work for every roof type.
o
Solar panels are dependent on sunlight.
How does this compare with the geothermal heat flux?
Geothermal plants consistently generate over 90% of rated capacity year-round by leveraging hot subsurface
fluids in confined geologies 24/7. In contrast, solar PV manages around 20-30% on average, only when the sun
shines during daytimes absent inclement weather.
List some of the disadvantages of geothermal heating.
o
Location Restricted. The largest single disadvantage of geothermal energy is that it is location specific.
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Environmental Side Effects.
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Earthquakes.
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High Costs.
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Sustainability.