Solar Energy
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Provided by: Khan Academy|Published on: April 27, 2021
Videos
Scientist Reviewed
9101112AP
This resource has been reviewed by SubjectToClimate's climate scientists and verified for scientific accuracy and up-to-date information. Learn about our review process →
Synopsis
- This video provides an overview of some key ways to harness the energy of the sun, using both passive and active solar methods.
- The technologies it describes include using thermal mass building materials, south-facing windows, window shades, reflective roof tiles, green roof materials, solar hot water collectors, concentrated solar power, and photovoltaic cells.

Subjects: Physics, Earth and Space Sciences, Engineering
Authors: Khan Academy
Region: North America, USA - West, United States, Global
Languages: English
Teaching Materials
Positives
- This is a great video lesson about the different kinds of technologies that can be used to harness energy from the sun.
- The video provides visual examples of each kind of technology.
Additional Prerequisites
- This video is part of a larger lesson in Khan Academy about energy resources and consumption, with a focus on fuel types and uses.
- While no sign-in is required to view the video, an account is required to make comments.
- The first lesson in this series might provide helpful background knowledge for the students, as the quiz is primarily related to that content.
Differentiation
- While this video is designed to be part of an AP Environmental Science course, it could easily be incorporated into a science lesson on energy, human impacts on the environment, or renewable energy technologies.
- Try discussing with your students how an area's climate can be a determining factor when selecting which of these technologies presented would be the best design choice.
- Other resources that could support this video include this course about renewable energy, this interactive map about solar power generation, and this video about barriers to implementing solar energy.
Scientist Notes
Teaching Tips
Standards
Resource Type and Format
Scientist Reviewed
This resource has been reviewed by SubjectToClimate's climate scientists and verified for scientific accuracy and up-to-date information. Our review process ensures that every resource in our library reflects the current state of climate science.
Learn about our review process →




