solar panels uses cells or panels to absorb the sun’s energy. That energy is then used to create electricity. how does this compare to light dependent reactions of photosynthesis?

Solar panels use the Sun’s energy to create electrical energy, which people use to power their homes and other devices. Plants use the Sun’s energy to create chemical energy, which they store and use to stay alive and grow. When a person or animal eats the plant and digests it, they get the chemical energy and use it to stay alive and grow.

That’s overly simplified, but it’s basically it, I think.

Use the shiney metal to reflect light like a mirror.

I would like to know of any construction companies, road crews, or any company that uses solar panels in the Tampa area and throws them away. I like to recycle solar panels by repairing and processing what power I can from them. Know any companies that throw out used solar panels? If so, can you provide the name and number?

Used solar panels are usually a great bargain. Unless there is obvious major damage, you are most likely making a very safe and thrifty purchase–and if you can test the panels with a multimeter in full sunlight before purchase, you are almost guaranteed a functional panel. Nobody really knows what the lifespan of a solar panel is, since many of the very first panels are still in operation. I have three very old Arcos on my house, and they are still performing well. However, used panel prices have

And I’m not talking about your landscaping lights.

It’s not a good idea yet as the cost doesn’t equal the savings.

-there is alot more to it than simply buying a panel(S) and plugging in. Same with wind power.

My electric bill ranges from $80 in the summer to $120 in the winter.

This 6kw system costs $20k (http://www.ebay.com/sch/sis.html?_nkw=6KW+WHOLE+HOUSE+SYSTEM+SOLAR+PANELS+OUTBACK+INVERTER). My electric bill for the year is @ $1200. IT WOULD TAKE 20 YEARS FOR IT TO PAY FOR ITSELF……………..if it lasts that long.

what are the main minerals that are used in making solar panels. and where in the world are those minrelas usually found

Heating panels have aluminum for the frame, glass for the top, copper pipes running through them, and possibly some plastic parts. The raw materials are easily obtained. Copper is the most difficult to get probably, but it’s not all that rare, since we used to make pennies out of it.

Would the mass reflection cause the sun to burn out quicker or will it just reflect the light not the heat. Could the solar panels reflect or absorb enough of the suns heat to reduce the earths temperature? The earth was never designed to be a big mirror but then the sea reflects alot of light also.

I was just pondering and interested if anyone has any scientific opinions on this, thanks

The Earth already reflects 37% of the light (including heat) that it receives from the Sun. At our distance from the Sun, the flux of energy carried by the light is 1370 Watts per square metre.

We are soon having solar panels installed. As we will then need to use as much electricity as possible and we have gas central heating, is it possible to have a system linked up to create hot water during the day instead of the gas boiler firing up every time we turn the hot tap on? Any ideas on cost would be an advantage too please.

It is a good decision. If I were you I would prefer the vacuum tube solar collector which is very efficient although it is about 20% more expensive but in no time you will recover the additional cost. I have one and I have never needed to use the electrical backup even with three or four overcast days. Even with no sunlight they will obtain heat from the infrared waves of the light. I live in the tropics but it will be even more useful for those living in th e temperate zone.

I’m very interested in putting solar panels on my roof or in my windows because of all the sunlight i get. Where can I find information on how I can actually hook things up to use solar panels for real electricity from start to finsih?

Thanks!

http://www.thesolarguide.com/solar-power-uses/cost-faq.aspx

this site should give you all the information that you need to learn about solar panels

http://www.makeenergynow.com/how-to-install-solar-panels/

this site is great for many of DIY environmentally sustainable projects

I noticed the price of solar panels has really dropped. I would like to use them to charge my cellphone and laptop. I know that I would need an inverter, but I am curious do I need to use a battery that the solar panels charge and then use that power to charge my laptop and phone, or do the solar panels go directly into my devices (after the inverter). Because if I need to charge a battery first I would think that when it needs to be replaced, the cost of it would be more than just paying for regular electricity. Thanks.

C.C. Crane Company of Fortuna, CA. might have a suggestion to help you do this at home. They specialize in crank and solar powered electronics…a bit pricey, but it might pay for itself: