AP Environmental Science Flashcards: Solar Energy
Written by AP Content Team, Verified for 2026 AP Exams, Last updated: May 2026
Review key ideas with interactive flashcards. This set includes 11 cards to help you master important concepts.
What are the two main environmental benefits of solar energy systems?
Solar energy systems have a low environmental impact and produce clean energy.
Card 1 of 11
All Flashcards (11)
What are the two main environmental benefits of solar energy systems?
Solar energy systems have a low environmental impact and produce clean energy.
A building is designed with large windows on its south-facing wall to allow sunlight to warm the concrete floor during the day. What type of system is this?
This is an example of a passive solar energy system because it absorbs heat directly without mechanical or electrical equipment.
What is a major economic drawback of solar energy systems?
Solar energy systems can be expensive to implement.
What is a passive solar energy system?
A passive solar energy system is one that absorbs heat directly from the sun without the use of mechanical and electric equipment.
What is an active solar energy system?
An active solar energy system uses mechanical and electric equipment to heat a liquid, which allows for the collection and storage of energy from the sun.
What is the primary limitation of using photovoltaic solar cells for power generation?
The use of photovoltaic solar cells is limited by the availability of sunlight.
How do active and passive solar energy systems differ regarding energy storage?
Active solar energy systems can collect and store energy, whereas passive solar energy systems cannot.
What is a potential negative environmental impact of large-scale solar energy farms?
Large solar energy farms may negatively impact desert ecosystems.
What are photovoltaic solar cells?
Photovoltaic solar cells are devices that capture light energy from the sun and transform it directly into electrical energy.
A homeowner installs panels on their roof that use a pump to circulate a fluid, which is heated by the sun and then stored in a tank to provide hot water. What type of system is this?
This is an active solar energy system because it uses mechanical and electric equipment (a pump) to collect and store solar energy.
What distinguishes active solar energy systems from passive ones in terms of their components?
Active solar systems use mechanical and electric equipment, while passive systems do not.