Question

Estimate the average power output of the Sun, given that about 1350 W/m2 reaches the upper atmosphere of the Earth. Express your answer with the appropriate units. S = nothing nothing

Answer 1

The average power output of the Sun will be 3.8 ×
`10^(26)` W.

Step-by-step explanation:

The intensity falling over a surface area is defined as Energy falling per unit area per unit volume, i.e,

I =
`(Energy)/(Area* Time )`

Also, Power, P = Energy/time

So, Intensity = Power/ Area

or, Power = Intensity × Area

Now, Distance from Sun to Earth , r = 149.6 ×
`10^(9)` m

So, Surface area of the sphere of radius r will be:-

A = 4 π
`r^(2)`

= 4 × 3.14 × (149.6 ×
`10^(9)`)²

= 2.81 ×
`10^(23)` m²

Thus Average Power will be:

P = 1350 × 2.81 ×
`10^(23)`

= 3.7935 ×
`10^(26)`

= 3.8 ×
`10^(26)` W