Answer :
Solar heating panels and solar electric panels both utilize solar energy but differ in function: heating panels absorb sunlight to warm water or air, whereas electric panels convert sunlight directly into electrical energy.
Comparing solar heating panels and solar electric panels, these two technologies harness solar energy but operate differently. Solar heating panels, as depicted in Figure 19.3.c, are designed to absorb solar radiation to heat water or air for residential or commercial use. They generally consist of a collector with high transmissivity, insulation, and a system to circulate the heated liquid or air. On the other hand, solar electric panels, often referred to as photovoltaic (PV) systems, use photovoltaic cells to convert light energy directly into electricity, as shown in Figure 19.3.d and Figure 19.3.e. PV cells have two layers of semiconductors, with one layer containing extra electrons and the other having extra spaces for electrons. When sunlight hits the cell, it causes electrons to move, creating an electric current.
Solar heating systems can be integrated to provide water, space, and pool heating, with the collector size and system controls tailored to varying energy needs throughout the seasons. Solar electric panels, while providing the advantage of generating electricity, may require additional investment in storage solutions to manage the intermittent nature of sunlight.
Answer:
We know that a solar electrical panel converts sunlight to electricity by means of solar cells and then, the electricity can be used as any electrical current.
I am not familiar with solar heating panels but assume that a liquid is heated by sunlight and then circulated thru the area that needs heating - it converts heat from sunlight to usable heat. The heat energy could also be stored and delivered at a different time (accumulated during the day and delivered at night). This is somewhat similar to a company freezing water at night when electricity is cheaper and then using the cooled water during the day for cooling.
