Question

Before solar energy can become a competitive form of energy available for consumers, which of the following events must occur? A. Solar energy is used to power a photovoltaic cell, which splits water into hydrogen and oxygen, and the hydrogen can be used to provide energy. B. Solar energy passes through a photovoltaic cell, which then stores the energy as heat until it is needed. C. Energy must be converted into another form, stored until needed, and then converted into heat. D. Energy must be collected, converted into another form, and stored until needed.

Answer 1

Answer: D. Energy must be collected, converted into another form, and stored until needed.

Step-by-step explanation:

Solar energy is the energy that is harnessed by the radiant energy coming from the sunlight. The radiant energy present in the sunlight consists of thermal energy which can be used for the purpose of generation of electricity. It is a renewable form of energy.

With the increase in the population worldwide the demand for the resources for generation of energy will also increase. Although the solar energy is the alternative form of energy but the demand for this resource is expected to increase with the non-availability of the conventional sources of energy like fossil fuels.

Thus the competition to obtain the solar energy may increase in future. Hence, the energy from sunlight should be captured and stored so that it can be converted into another form when required.

Answer 2

The answer is; D

Solar cells usually convert solar energy into electricity which could later be reserved. The efficiency of solar cells is still low, compared to other sources, with a conversion rate of 15% - 22%. This reduces the attractiveness of solar cells as a competitive source of energy. This also makes this form of energy expensive due to its inefficiency.