Light energy is transmitted via radiation, obtained through different wavelengths within the visible spectrum. This type of energy can either be from an artificial or natural origin, the latter being emitted by the sun, the main source of light energy.
In nature, we can find energy in different forms, which supply us with electricity in most cases. This article focuses on light energy, its types, its impact on us, and how it is produced.
What Is Light Energy?
Light energy is a form of energy that enables us to see objects. It travels in waves and is transmitted by radiation originating from different wavelengths. In addition to being captured by our eyes, these waves are identified by plants for photosynthesis.
Light energy encompasses all electromagnetic radiation of frequency and wavelength that humans can capture within the visible spectrum range.
What Are The Types And Examples Of Light Energy?
There are different types of light energy, and they include:
- Visible light
- Infrared waves
- X-rays
- Ultraviolet light
- Gamma rays
- Radio waves
- Microwaves
Where Is Light Energy Found?
As we have noted, this type of energy is found in electromagnetic waves visible to the eyes of humans and other animals. In this way, seeing and feeling sunlight or the light emitted by a lamp means being in the presence of light energy.
How Does Light Energy Impact Us?
Light energy, when produced naturally, is essential for the development of all forms of life on the planet. Concerning humans, it plays numerous roles, and they include the following:
- It is responsible for producing vitamin D. When we are exposed to sunlight, our skin absorbs light which catalyzes the conversion of 7-dehydrocholesterol to vitamin D3.
- For plants, light energy is essential for photosynthesis, providing us with food.
- From light energy, other energy sources can be derived, like hydro-energy formed from the evaporation of water through the action of sunlight and wind. This process heats air masses as an essential step for weather formation.
- Most importantly, light energy enables us to see things.
- We get electrical energy through light to power our houses and offices. A perfect example is a solar panel.
How Is Light Energy Produced?
As stated earlier, light energy can be produced by human manufacture or natural procedures. In the first case, light emission occurs by devices developed by society, such as lamps and lanterns, while natural light originates from natural processes, such as sunlight or fire.
How To Transform Light Energy Into Electrical Energy?
With the use of a photovoltaic system, it is possible to convert light radiation into electrical energy. But how does this technology work?
The transformation of energy obtained by sunlight into electrical energy takes place through photovoltaic panels. Such plates are composed of photovoltaic cells, which capture the Sun’s rays and generate photovoltaic solar energy.
This solar energy passes through a device called an inverter, which prepares it for consumption, making it ready to be distributed by the power board for the entire residence.
Using the photovoltaic system may save up to 95% of the costs with light bills, bringing other advantages, such as the appreciation of the property and greater sustainability.
Conclusion
Light energy is a form of clean energy that has impacted humankind for ages. This form of energy is classified as clean energy as it comes freely from the Sun (primary source). Although light energy has changed our lifestyle since ancient days, it is not short of health hazards like sunburn, skin cancers, and many others.