TheBuzzReads.com | Explore Popular Blogs

A definitive guide to solar energy and its advantages and drawbacks

The modern world is characterized by an overwhelming population explosion and a consequent tussle for natural resources. The fast-depleting natural resources supply poses a serious threat to future generations, causing a dire need for sustainable alternatives. Solar energy is among the most commonly utilized alternative fuel sources today and is being utilized in homes and offices at small-scale and large-scale levels. This article discusses how solar energy works, its advantages and drawbacks, and its functions:

How does solar energy work?
Extraction of solar cells : Solar energy is powered by panels made of solar or photovoltaic cells, generated by blending melted crystalline silicon with gallium or boron. Each silicon ingot or “wafer” thus formed comprises a positively charged and a negatively charged silicon layer.

Manufacturing of solar panels : These solar cells are used to manufacture large, black solar panels. The silicon semiconductors in these panels absorb sunlight to generate electricity.

Electricity generation : The positively and negatively charged silicon layers in the ingots in solar cells form an electric field in the panel. When the panels absorb sunlight, the electrons in the ingots separate from the atoms. The electrical field around each wafer sets these electrons in motion, generating direct current (DC), which is converted to alternating current (AC) and utilized in homes and offices.

Electricity utilization : The AC electricity passes the electric panel and powers your home. The regular electricity supply can compensate for any shortage of solar energy.

Advantages of solar energy
Natural resource conservation : Solar energy is a renewable source facilitating natural resource conservation, contributing to a sustainable future.

Environment-friendly alternative : Solar power plants do not cause air pollution or emit greenhouse gasses, which is a significant step towards a healthier environment.

“Native” energy source : Solar energy is referred to as a “native” energy source, as it is available across the planet and generates local employment.

Reduction in energy bills : Replacing traditional electric power with solar energy can reduce your energy bills. Moreover, you can avail of credit for unutilized surplus energy.

Unaffected by power outages : Solar energy can continue functioning even during power outages.

Disadvantages of solar energy
Space utilization : Solar panels occupy space on rooftops and open areas. Thus, thorough planning and space allocation is required before solar panel installation.

Suitable only for permanent residences : Another major disadvantage is that solar panel systems are not portable. Thus, individuals frequently changing homes cannot reap the benefits of solar energy.

Expensive project : Installing solar panels can be time-consuming and expensive, particularly at a large-scale level. Considerable financial planning is required before undertaking the project.

Better suited to sunny weather : Although solar energy can be harnessed in areas receiving perennially less sunlight, the supply of solar energy may be very less, requiring support from traditional electricity sources.

While installing solar panels can be cumbersome and time-consuming, it can be highly rewarding, personally and environmentally. Proper planning and coordination with reputed solar panel installers can help you eliminate the cons of installation and enjoy its benefits.

Popular Reads

Here’s how you can get your allergies detected

How many times have allergies caused you to sneeze every time you take a ride in the open air? Or rashes on coming in contact with a plant? Or swelling as a result of a peanut allergy? Sneezing, running noses, watery eyes, rashes, swelling all these reactions due to allergies can be quite distressing. Allergies are more common and can be caused by various things. The cause of allergies is still unknown, it could be genetic or just a singular development. However, they can be easily detected by just visiting your doctor and undergoing some tests. Read on to know more about what are allergies and how to detect them. What are allergies? The immune system is designed to fight any entrant in the body that it recognizes as foreign. However, at times, the immune system becomes over vigilant and starts fighting foreign entrants that are not harmful. Substances that cause the immune system to react this way are called “allergens”, and when you display symptoms of these interactions, you are diagnosed “allergic” to the substance. Allergens can include plants, grass, pollen, dust, food, animal dander among others. While symptoms like running nose, sneezing, watery eyes, rashes, itching, and others, are all attributed to allergic reactions.

5 frequently asked questions about Alzheimer’s disease

A common form of dementia, Alzheimer’s disease is a debilitating and progressive disease that affects the brain and motor functions of the body. The disease progresses through stages. It begins to affect the regions of the brain that control language, thought, and memory. In most of the cases, it begins with a slight memory loss. In the final stages, Alzheimer’s disease leads to the loss of various abilities including motor skills, speech, and independent movement. Here are a few frequently asked questions about Alzheimer’s. What are the causes? Alzheimer’s disease does not have any definite cause. Research has been unable to conclude whether Alzheimer’s is developed by one cause or multiple ones. The exact cause of the ailment is not yet known. However, there are multiple factors that may increase the risk of Alzheimer’s disease. One of the major causes is ageism. Also, a family history of Alzheimer’s is another major risk. This may lead to the inheritance of genes that cause this disease. Some other possible risk factors that can cause Alzheimer’s include high blood pressure, cardiovascular diseases, and high cholesterol. What are the symptoms? In most cases, the first warning sign of Alzheimer’s disease is a loss of cognitive ability.

Four important steps in anemia management

Hemoglobin is a protein molecule in the red blood cells responsible for carrying oxygen throughout the body. Its richness in iron gives blood its red color. Anemia is a condition where a person has low hemoglobin or red blood cell count. From an underlying disease to nutrient deficiencies, there are a lot of factors that contribute to the onset of this condition. There are many forms of anemia. Some of them include: Iron deficiency anemia -This is caused due to low iron levels in the blood. Most common causes of this type of anemia are heavy menstruation or internal bleeding. Vitamin deficiency anemia – This type of anemia is caused by the deficiency of vitamin C, B-12 or folate Aplastic anemia – Damaged stem cells in the bone marrow fail to produce enough red blood cells, leading to aplastic anemia. Sickle cell anemia – This is a condition characterized by the development of abnormal crescent-shaped red blood cells. Hemolytic anemia – This is a blood disorder caused due to premature death of red blood cells. Thalassemia – This is caused due to low amounts of hemoglobin in the blood. The blood disorders vary in duration and severity. Prompt diagnosis, and treatment are important because anemia could also be due to an underlying condition.