GED Science TestEarth and Space ScienceEasy
A homeowner is planning to install a solar panel system. They live in the Northern Hemisphere and want to maximize energy collection throughout the year. To achieve this, the solar panels should be oriented to face which direction?
- AWest
- BSouth
- CNorth
- DEast
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. South
In the Northern Hemisphere, the sun's path is always in the southern part of the sky. Orienting solar panels to face south maximizes their exposure to direct sunlight throughout the day and year.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Facing west would capture afternoon sun but miss morning sun.
- C. Facing north would mean the panels receive very little direct sunlight in the Northern Hemisphere.
- D. Facing east would capture morning sun but miss peak afternoon sun.
Solar Panel Orientation (Northern Hemisphere)
To maximize energy collection in the Northern Hemisphere, solar panels are typically oriented to face true south to capture the most direct sunlight throughout the day and year.
- Sun's path is in the southern sky in NH.
- A south-facing orientation maximizes direct sun exposure.
- Tilt angle also adjusted for seasonal changes.
Memory trick: Sun's Southward Gaze Powers Northern Homes