The energy flux from the sun has a peak value of around 1500 W/m2, and solar cells are around 15% efficient. Estimate the area needed to satisfy US energy needs using solar cells, using the estimates that there are about 350 million people in the US and that we use an average of 90 kW/person. Also assume that there are about 6 hours of "peak" sunlight per day. Answer in square kilometers (do not put units in your answer, however).
The energy flux from the sun has a peak value of around 1500 W/m2, and solar cells are around 15% efficient. Estimate the area needed to satisfy US energy needs using solar cells, using the estimates that there are about 350 million people in the US and that we use an average of 90 kW/person. Also assume that there are about 6 hours of "peak" sunlight per day. Answer in square kilometers (do not put units in your answer, however).
Related questions
Question
100%
The energy flux from the sun has a peak value of around 1500 W/m2, and solar cells are around 15% efficient. Estimate the area needed to satisfy US energy needs using solar cells, using the estimates that there are about 350 million people in the US and that we use an average of 90 kW/person. Also assume that there are about 6 hours of "peak" sunlight per day. Answer in square kilometers (do not put units in your answer, however).
Expert Solution
This question has been solved!
Explore an expertly crafted, step-by-step solution for a thorough understanding of key concepts.
This is a popular solution!
Trending now
This is a popular solution!
Step by step
Solved in 3 steps with 3 images