Solar panels are an environmentally-friendly way of producing electricity. Modern solar panels can reach 15% efficiency for converting light into electricity. In Washington, the average sunlight is about 180 W/m2. If someone wants a solar panel capable of powering five 40-watt lights, how big will it need to be? A)2 m² B)4)5 m² C)7)5 m² D)10 m² E)15 m²

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

It will need to be approximately 7.5 m². 5x40 watts = 200 watts needed. With the efficiency of 15%, 1m² will produce 27 watts. Thus, 200/27 = 7.41, or about 7.5 m2 of solar panel needed.

Solar Panels Are an Environmentally-Friendly Way of Producing Electricity