Solar power producing heat
3 marks · EasyA solar heating panel is used to heat water in a tank.
State one way you could maximise how much sunlight falls on the panel in a day.
State how the water is heated as it flows through the panel.
Give one reason why the panel is insulated at the back.
Work this out on paper, then compare with the answer and worked solution below. With a free account you can submit written answers for marking.
Show answer
(a) Face the panel towards the Sun / adjust the panel's angle / place in an unshaded area
(b) Water is heated by absorbing energy from thermal radiation
(c) To reduce heat loss / to keep more heat in the panel
Show mark scheme and worked solution
Marking points
B1 (a) · 1 mark · One valid way to maximise sunlight exposure (e.g., angle, facing direction, unshaded).
B1 (b) · 1 mark · State the water absorbs energy from thermal (solar) radiation.
B1 (c) · 1 mark · State to reduce heat loss or keep heat inside the panel.
Worked solution
a) The panel can be angled to face the Sun directly throughout the day.
b) Water is heated by thermal radiation from the Sun as it passes through the panel.
c) The back insulation reduces heat loss, keeping more energy in the system.