Test 1

Question 1

Photovoltaics is a solar energy technology that uses unique properties of semiconductors to directly convert solar radiation into electricity.

Answer 1

True

Question 2

A distributed-generation system may serve as the only source of power for a consumer, or as back-up or supplemental power for a utility grid connection.

Answer 2

True

Question 3

Photovoltaics has been a practical technology for power generation for more than 160 years.

Answer 3

False

Question 4

Production and installation of PV systems is growing rapidly.

Answer 4

True

Question 5

Portable PV systems can never be used while in motion.

Answer 5

False

Question 6

Supplemental-power PV systems offset a portion of the power needed from the utility, resulting in lower electricity bills.

Answer 6

True

Question 7

PV power plants can be located closer to populated areas than can conventional power plants because they do not involve hazardous materials or cause air, water, or noise pollution.

Answer 7

Ture

Question 8

Numerous not-for-profit organizations work to promote and further the PV undustry, including organizations involved in research, marketing, installer training, and standards development.

Answer 8

True

Question 9

A flat-plate collector can utilize any solar radiation, direct or reflected, that strikes its surface.

Answer 9

True

Question 10

Passive solar design techniques incorporated into architecture increase the amount of energy needed for lighting, heating, cooling, and other loads.

Answer 10

False

Question 11

A(n) ____ is a company that produces and/or distributes electricity from its central generation point to the consumer.

Answer 11

Utility

Question 12

Distributed-generation systems can include ____.

Answer 12

PV systems, wind turbines, and engine generators. (all of the above)

Question 13

Portable PV systems power mobile loads such as ____.

Answer 13

vehicles, temporary signs and lighting, and handheld devices. (all of the above)

Question 14

____ components are the electrical and structural components, aside from the major components, that are required to complete a PV system.

Answer 14

Balance-of-system

Question 15

A(n) _____ is a business that designs, builds, and installs complete PV systems for particular applications by matching components from various manufacturers.

Answer 15

integrator

Question 16

____ organizations test products for safety and conformity to standard requirements.

Answer 16

Product listing

Question 17

____ energy is expected to compose an increasingly larger portion of energy production.

Answer 17

Renewable

Question 18

A solar ____ is a device designed to absorb solar radiation and convert it to another form, usually heat or electricity.

Answer 18

energy collector

Question 19

Positioning windows to face ____ allows maximum sunlight and heat into the building.

Answer 19

south

Question 20

Solar ____ systems are primarily used in residences to heat water and living spaces.

Answer 20

thermal heating

Question 21

The ____ is the utility’s network of conductors, substations, and equipment that distributes electricity from its central generation point to the consumer.

Answer 21

grid

Question 22

____ generation is a system in which many smaller power-generating systems create electrical power near the point of consumption.

Answer 22

Distributed

Question 23

A(n) ____ system is an electrical system consisting of an array of one or more PV modules, conductors, electrical components, and one or more loads.

Answer 23

photovoltaic, PV

Question 24

____ power systems, most often for single-family homes, are the fastest-growing type of PV system installation.

Answer 24

Supplemental

Question 25

A(n) ____ may be directly employed by an integrator, or by an electrical contractor who specializes in PV installations.

Answer 25

installer

Question 26

The ____, or end user, is the owner of the building or structure powered by the PV system.

Answer 26

consumer

Question 27

A(n) ____ collector is a solar energy collector that enhances solar energy by focusing it on a smaller area through reflective surfaces or lenses.

Answer 27

concentrating

Question 28

Solar ____ energy systems convert solar radiation into heat energy.

Answer 28

thermal

Question 29

____ were the first practical applications of PV technology.

Answer 29

satellites

Question 30

The most common type of PV system is a(n) ____-connected system on a residential roof.

Answer 30

utility