Application of Mathematical Concepts on Global Issues

MATH5103 M4 Application
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MATH5103 M4 Application
One of my interests related to the global issue of climate change is renewable energy sources, particularly solar power. The burning of fossil fuels and the subsequent release of large amounts of greenhouse gases has been linked to ongoing climate change. Solar power is a carbon-free renewable energy source that has been hailed as a solution to the growing threat of climate change. I believe that the significant development of solar power as a clean energy technology is essential to a green economic future and a reliable and resilient electric grid. Interestingly, the topic of solar power is related to algebra, geometry, trigonometry, and statistics. All four math concepts are essential in determining the positioning of solar panels in terms of angle, seasons, and location. For instance, algebra is essential to determining the roof or site size. When installing solar panels on a roof, one has to apply algebra to determine how many solar panels can fit on the site. The math concept is also useful when calculating the number of solar panels required to generate a certain amount of power.
Similarly, geometrical concepts are central to improving the output of solar panels. On the whole, using algebra requires photovoltaic output measurements and per capita energy consumption. Solar panels output is influenced by panel size, so geometric concepts are helpful. For instance, monocrystalline solar panels tend to be rectangular with slightly rounded corners rather than any other shape because this is the most effective method for grouping solar cells. Solar geometry is also crucial to evaluate the impact of shadows on solar cell output. Solar cell optimization can be achieved by calculating the sun's position to enhance solar radiation intensity. Since the radiation received on the surface of a solar panel is influenced by the position of the sun, understanding the time of year, latitude, and time of day is essential to efficient solar output. Solar geometry allows solar engineers to determine the exact position of the sun and the time differences in solar radiation to design practical solar projects. Since the sun's altitude is affected by seasons, solar engineers also apply solar geometry to maximize the amount of sunlight falling on the panels throughout the year.
Solar geometry applies geographical and astronomical concepts to increase solar output: the sun's location is influenced by the site's latitude, and the further the site from the equator, the greater the need to apply solar geometry to determine the best angle of inclination for solar panels. For instance, solar panels in the northern hemisphere face south while those in the southern hemisphere face north. Trigonometry is just as crucial in that applying trigonometric concepts is key to maximizing the power output of solar panels at various inclinations. A solar panel fixed in its positioning concerning the sky will generate power at varying rates as the sun crosses overhead. Maximum power output occurs when the sun is directly overhead and decreases as the sun's rays fall at an oblique angle. Trigonometry is, therefor...