The intensity of solar radiation at the top of Earth\'s atmosphereis 1340 W/m 2

Question

The intensity of solar radiation at the top of Earth's atmosphereis 1340 W/m2. Assuming that 50%of the incoming solar energy reaches Earth's surface and assumingthat you absorb 50% of that incident energy, estimate the amount ofsolar energy you absorb in a 60 minute sunbath. Assume that you arelying flat on the ground and that you have an effective area of1.70 m by 0.3 m and that the sun's angleof elevation is 60°above the horizon (draw a picture if youneed to.). Enter anumber. 1 J

Enter anumber.

Explanation / Answer

so the energy incident on you is    1340 * 0.50* sin60 =    580.24 W/m2 . You absorb half of this, or    190.12 . and your area is     1.70 * 0.30 =   0.51 m2 . And the time is    3600 seconds  so . energy absorbed = intensity absorbed * area *time = 190.12 * 0.51 * 3600 =    349060Joules . And the time is    3600 seconds  so . energy absorbed = intensity absorbed * area *time = 190.12 * 0.51 * 3600 =    349060Joules

Related Questions

Navigate

• Browse (All)
• Browse T
• Subjects

---

---

Integrity-first tutoring: explanations and feedback only — we do not complete graded work. Learn more.