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direct insolation
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| Flat-plate collectors, which typically contain a large number of solar cells mounted on a rigid, flat surface, can make use of both direct sunlight and the diffuse sunlight reflected from clouds, the ground, and nearby objects
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Solar radiation that comes straight from the Sun, without reflecting off clouds, dust, the ground, or other objects. Scientists also talk about direct-normal radiation, which refers to the portion of sunlight that comes directly from the Sun and strikes a surface at a 90-degree angle. The distinction between direct insolation and diffuse insolation is important because flat-plate solar collectors can use both forms of light, whereas concentrator systems can only use direct light. See also insolation.
Related category
• SOLAR ENERGY AND POWER
Source: US Department of Energy
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