Solar energy is also known as?
VerifiedAnswer: Photovoltaics
Explanation:
While solar energy and photovoltaics are closely related terms, they are not exactly the same thing. Solar energy refers to the broad concept of harnessing energy from the sun, while photovoltaics is a specific technology used to convert solar energy into electricity.
The term "photovoltaics" comes from two Greek words: "photos" meaning light and "voltaic" relating to electricity. This technology works through photovoltaic cells, commonly known as solar cells, which are made from semiconductor materials like silicon. When sunlight hits these cells, it knocks electrons loose from their atoms, creating an electric current that can be captured and used as electricity.
Solar energy actually encompasses various technologies beyond just photovoltaics. These include solar thermal systems that use sunlight to heat water or air, concentrated solar power systems that use mirrors to focus sunlight for electricity generation, and passive solar design that uses building orientation and materials to naturally heat and cool spaces.
However, in common usage, especially in the context of renewable energy discussions, the terms solar energy and photovoltaics are often used interchangeably. This is because photovoltaic systems are the most widely recognized and commonly installed form of solar energy technology for both residential and commercial applications.
The photovoltaic effect was first discovered by French physicist Alexandre Edmond Becquerel in 1839, but it wasn't until the 1950s that practical solar cells were developed. Today, photovoltaic technology has become increasingly efficient and affordable, making it one of the fastest-growing sources of renewable energy worldwide. Modern solar panels can convert about 15-22% of sunlight into electricity, with some advanced systems achieving even higher efficiency rates.
