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The sun's light, which is electromagnetic energy, can be directly converted into electrical energy by solar cells via the photoelectric effect. We've probably all seen this, even if it means just using a solar cell powered calculator.

Also, the electromagnetic energy can generate thermal (heat) energy in things. We can focus mirrors to heat a thermal sink that heats water to generate steam. This steam can be used to spin a steam turbine. The thermal energy has been converted into mechanical energy and then into electrical energy.

Plants convert the electromagnetic energy of light into chemical energy in photosynthesis. And we've all heard of this phenomenon.

All light, including that from the sun, can be thought of as tiny packets of energy, called photons, speeding through space at 300 000 kilometers per second. When such a tiny light-packet hits something it can knock an electron out of its orbit around an atom. When this happens inside our eyes we register it as seeing. When it happens inside a solar panel, the panel can capture the electron and force it to go around a circuit, thus creating electricity.

yes. solar pannels use light energy from the sun and transfer it for another use. e.g heat energy for a kettle or kinetic energy for a remote controlled car ...

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What 2 useful forms of energy come from the sun?

Two useful forms of energy that come from the sun are solar thermal energy, which is used to produce heat, and solar photovoltaic energy, which is used to generate electricity through solar panels.


What is energy that is collected from the sun's radiation?

The energy that is collected from the sun's radiation is referred to as solar power. Solar power can be used in a priority of applications. Solar power is becoming more and more prevalent.


How much energy can be used with solar energy?

The amount of energy that can be generated with solar energy depends on factors such as location, amount of sunlight, size of solar panel system, and efficiency of the panels. On average, a residential solar panel system can generate around 10-12 kilowatt-hours per square foot per year. Commercial and utility-scale solar installations can generate much more energy.


Can solar energy convert sunlight in to mechanical energy?

Solar energy can be converted into mechanical energy using solar panels to generate electricity, which can then power mechanical devices such as motors or turbines. The electricity produced by solar panels can be used to drive pumps, fans, or other mechanical equipment.


Is solar energy same as solar cells?

No, solar energy and solar cells are not the same, although sometimes people do use the phrases as though they were interchangable. Solar energy is energy that is transferred from the sun to the earth. Solar cells are devices that turn energy from the sun into photovoltaic energy that we can use.

Related Questions

Is it true that solar panels are used to generate electricity?

YES. because it converts the solar energy into electrical energy


How is heat transferred from the sun to a solar heating panel?

Solar panels don't generate heat; they convert the energy of sunlight into electrical energy, which I suppose could be used to generate heat.


Solar energy how is it used?

Solar energy is mainly used as follows:(1) To heat stuff, for example, to heat water.(2)To generate electricity.Solar energy is mainly used as follows:(1) To heat stuff, for example, to heat water.(2)To generate electricity.Solar energy is mainly used as follows:(1) To heat stuff, for example, to heat water.(2)To generate electricity.Solar energy is mainly used as follows:(1) To heat stuff, for example, to heat water.(2)To generate electricity.


What 2 useful forms of energy come from the sun?

Two useful forms of energy that come from the sun are solar thermal energy, which is used to produce heat, and solar photovoltaic energy, which is used to generate electricity through solar panels.


How can solar energy be used to power objects instead of fuel?

Solar energy can be used to generate electricity, which will then drive machinery of all kinds, including vehicles. Most fossil fuel (coal, oil and natural gas) is also used to generate electricity.


How could solar energy source be used?

Solar energy can be used to generate electricity through solar panels, which capture sunlight and convert it into electricity. It can also be used for heating and cooling purposes through solar thermal systems. Additionally, solar energy can be stored in batteries for use during the night or on cloudy days.


Why does solar pannel have black metal?

the main purpose of the black metal is to absorb u.v rays from the sun that are used by solar's to generate energy.


What types of energy are used at home?

Hydroelectric power (from a dam), nuclear energy, solar power and wind power generate electricity. Natural gas is used for heating. Solar (the sun) can produce heat and electricity.


What is energy that is collected from the sun's radiation?

The energy that is collected from the sun's radiation is referred to as solar power. Solar power can be used in a priority of applications. Solar power is becoming more and more prevalent.


How much energy can be used with solar energy?

The amount of energy that can be generated with solar energy depends on factors such as location, amount of sunlight, size of solar panel system, and efficiency of the panels. On average, a residential solar panel system can generate around 10-12 kilowatt-hours per square foot per year. Commercial and utility-scale solar installations can generate much more energy.


Can solar energy convert sunlight in to mechanical energy?

Solar energy can be converted into mechanical energy using solar panels to generate electricity, which can then power mechanical devices such as motors or turbines. The electricity produced by solar panels can be used to drive pumps, fans, or other mechanical equipment.


Is solar energy same as solar cells?

No, solar energy and solar cells are not the same, although sometimes people do use the phrases as though they were interchangable. Solar energy is energy that is transferred from the sun to the earth. Solar cells are devices that turn energy from the sun into photovoltaic energy that we can use.