Which statement best describes passive solar energy systems?

Which statement best describes passive solar energy systems?

• A. Absorb heat directly from the sun but without the use of mechanical and electric equipment to collect and store the energy
• B. Uses mechanical devices to collect solar energy
• C. Relies on wind energy to heat buildings
• D. Requires electricity to operate solar collectors

Answer: (C)

Passive solar energy systems rely on the building’s design and materials to capture heat from sunlight and store it for later use, without using pumps, fans, or other mechanical or electric equipment. The idea is to absorb sunlight directly and let the heat move through the home by natural means, with features like south-facing windows to catch sun, good insulation to keep heat in, and thermal mass (such as concrete, brick, or water) to store heat and release it gradually. This approach contrasts with active solar heating, which uses mechanical devices to collect, move, and store solar energy. It also isn’t about wind power, and it doesn’t require electricity to operate collectors. So the statement describing absorbing heat directly from the sun without mechanical/electric equipment best fits passive solar systems.

Passive solar energy systems rely on the building’s design and materials to capture heat from sunlight and store it for later use, without using pumps, fans, or other mechanical or electric equipment. The idea is to absorb sunlight directly and let the heat move through the home by natural means, with features like south-facing windows to catch sun, good insulation to keep heat in, and thermal mass (such as concrete, brick, or water) to store heat and release it gradually. This approach contrasts with active solar heating, which uses mechanical devices to collect, move, and store solar energy. It also isn’t about wind power, and it doesn’t require electricity to operate collectors. So the statement describing absorbing heat directly from the sun without mechanical/electric equipment best fits passive solar systems.