Primer on Solar Energy

Earth's Sun

Our Sun is very far away, but without it, life on earth would be impossible. The Sun's light and energy helps create the oxygen we breathe and determines our climate and weather.

Both natural and man-made processes use sunlight. Solar energy captured by plants, algae and cyanobacteria is converted to chemical form--oxygen and reduced carbon compounds. Fossil fuels, such as natural gas and coal, are actually ancient products of photosynthesis. Sunlight is converted by solar cells into electricity.

In this Primer, you'll learn the answers to some basic questions about the importance of solar energy.

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