Final answer:
Slopes facing the sun are more susceptible to avalanches in clear weather because solar radiation can melt and weaken snow. Optimal sun exposure, like with solar panels, can lead to increased risk when snow is involved. Seasonal sunlight variations also affect avalanche risk.
Step-by-step explanation:
Slopes that are exposed to the sun are more prone to daytime avalanches during clear weather. This phenomenon occurs because the sun's radiation can cause the snow to melt and weaken, increasing the risk of an avalanche. For example, if solar panels are tilted at an angle equal to the site latitude and oriented toward the south, it optimizes solar gain during the noon-time sun, which is the strongest. Similarly, the stability of snow on a slope can be compromised during this time of intense sunlight. In terms of daily sunlight variation, the apparent path of the Sun across the sky also plays a role, as the Sun’s path is longest in the summer leading to longer days, and shortest in the winter leading to shorter days. These seasonal differences in daylight contribute to varying risks of avalanches throughout the year.