Question

Energy from sunlight is _____; if it is harnessed to move a turbine and generate electricity, then it has been converted to _____.

Answer 1

Sunlight is radiant energy, and it can be converted to mechanical energy when harnessed to move a turbine and generate electricity.

Step-by-step explanation:

Energy from sunlight is radiant energy; if it is harnessed to move a turbine and generate electricity, then it has been converted to mechanical energy.

Sunlight can be converted into electrical energy through photovoltaic cells, which directly convert radiant energy into electricity. Another method is through concentrating solar power (CSP), where sunlight is concentrated using mirrors or lenses to create thermal energy, which is then used to generate steam and turn a turbine to produce electricity. In both cases, sunlight is being harnessed and converted into a different form of energy.

Answer 2

Energy from sunlight is called potential energy; if it is harnessed to move a turbine and generate electricity, then it has been converted to kinetic energy. Potential energy refers to energy that has been stored or is coming from a direct source. When potential energy is converted into a usable energy it becomes kinetic energy.