Solar and Wind Energy Worksheet
Integrated Science 4
Redwood High School
Name:
1/16
Per:
Directions: Read the fact sheets on wind and solar energy and answer the following questions:
Solar Energy
1. Define solar energy:____________________________________________________________.
2. Explain how nuclear fusion in our sun creates radiant energy.
______________________________________________________________________________________
3. How long does it take the sun to provide enough energy to supply our nation’s energy needs for one
year?______________________________________________________________________________.
4. Complete the pie graph to show where the sun’s energy is used:
5. Explain the difference between passive and active solar homes.
______________________________________________________________________________________
6. Explain how solar heat is currently being stored.
______________________________________________________________________________________
7. How much can your water-heating bill be reduced using a solar water heater? ________________
8. How much radiant energy is converted into electrical energy by Photovoltaic cells? _____________
9. List four ways to concentrate solar power:
1.
2.
3.
4.
10. Describe how a photovoltaic cell works. Include all four steps.
______________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________________
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Wind Energy
1. Explain how wind is generated.
______________________________________________________________________________________
2. Why is wind energy called renewable?_____________________________________________________
3. What is the name of the device used to measure wind speed? __________________________________
4. Look at the graph of Wind Velocity vs. Electrical Power Output. At what speed does maximum output
occur? _______________________
5. How many MW of electricity are generated by the largest wind turbines in the United States? ________
6. How many homes can this power? _______________
7. List the top five US states in 2013 in terms of Net Electricity Generation:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
8. Explain the difference between efficiency and capacity.
______________________________________________________________________________________
9. How can small companies and individuals make installing wind turbines more affordable?
______________________________________________________________________________________
10. Look at the Wind Turbine Diagram. List and describe the components of a wind turbine.
______________________________________________________________________________________