Basics of Solar Energy and Various Sun-Earth Angles

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This chapter discusses the causes and effects of solar energy incidents on Earth's spectral, skyward angular, intensity, and luminous characteristics. A particular perspective is how these characteristics influence and determine how particular practical devices, systems, and applications harness available solar energy. The uses of solar energy to produce heat, generate electricity via photovoltaics, and provide daylight are considered. Moreover, diverse factors limiting the applicability of specific solar energy conversion devices or approaches are also discussed.