how are passive and active solar energy systems different?

2 Responses to how are passive and active solar energy systems different?

1. rs says:

   July 4, 2010 at 10:37 am

   Passive:
   http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Passive_solar

   Active:
   http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Active_solar
   References :
2. Michael says:

   July 4, 2010 at 10:58 am

   When solar energy systems are classified as either passive or active, the classification is based on how they convert solar energy into useful energy.

   The basic difference between active and passive systems is that active systems use mechanical devices to collect, store, and distribute solar energy whereas passive systems do not use mechanical devices.

   For example, an active solar water heating system will use pumps to circulate the water or heat transfer fluid through the system. In comparison, a passive solar water heating system, such as a thermosyphon, will use natural convection instead of mechanical pumps for circulating the water.

   Hope this helps!

   Michael
   Editor, Solar Energy At Home
   References :
   http://www.solar-energy-at-home.com/types-of-solar-energy.html