Describe the differences between passive solar heat-
ing, active solar heating, and photovoltaic energy.
Passive solar heating involves designing buildings in a way that maximizes the use of sunlight for heating purposes. This can include using large windows on the south side of a building, thermal mass materials to store heat, and proper insulation to retain heat. Passive solar heating does not require any mechanical or electrical devices to work.
Active solar heating uses mechanical devices such as pumps or fans to collect and distribute solar energy for heating purposes. This can include solar panels that collect sunlight and convert it into heat, which is then circulated throughout a building. Active solar heating systems are typically more complex and expensive than passive solar heating systems.
Photovoltaic energy, on the other hand, involves using solar panels to convert sunlight directly into electricity. This electricity can then be used to power appliances, lighting, and other electrical devices. Photovoltaic energy is a renewable and sustainable energy source that can be used to reduce reliance on non-renewable sources such as fossil fuels. Unlike passive and active solar heating, which primarily focus on heating buildings, photovoltaic energy is used for generating electricity.