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Advance Diploma in Solar Semester Two Paper 1 Exam Section B
- April 9, 2026
- Posted by: iisemumbai
- Category: Question bank
Advance Diploma in Solar Semester Two Paper 1 Exam Section B
100 Short Questions & Answers
PART 1: Solar Water Pumping System (Q1–25)
Q1. What is a solar water pumping system?
A solar water pumping system uses photovoltaic (PV) energy to operate a water pump. It lifts water from sources like wells, rivers, or boreholes. It replaces diesel or electric pumps and provides a clean, renewable solution.
Q2. What are the main components of a solar water pumping system?
The system includes a solar PV array, mounting structure, pump controller or inverter, pump (AC/DC), cables, and protection devices. Each component ensures efficient energy conversion and water delivery.
Q3. What is the function of a solar PV array?
The solar PV array converts sunlight into DC electricity. Its capacity typically ranges from 1 kW to 10 kW depending on pump size. Higher efficiency modules result in greater water output.
Q4. What factors are important for designing a solar pump system?
Key factors include solar irradiation, daily water requirement, and total dynamic head. Site conditions and system sizing must also be considered. These parameters ensure proper system performance.
Q5. What is total dynamic head?
Total dynamic head is the total height the water needs to be lifted. It includes suction head, discharge head, and friction losses. It is a critical parameter in pump selection.
Q6. What are DC solar pumps?
DC solar pumps operate directly on DC power from solar panels. They are efficient and do not require an inverter. They are commonly used in small-scale applications.
Q7. What are AC solar pumps?
AC solar pumps use AC motors and require an inverter or VFD. They are suitable for larger applications and higher capacities. They can also work in hybrid mode with grid supply.
Q8. What is a submersible pump?
A submersible pump is installed below the water level, typically in borewells. It is used when suction depth exceeds 10 meters. The pump operates while fully submerged.
Q9. What is a surface pump?
A surface pump is installed above ground near the water source. It is easy to install and maintain. It is suitable for shallow water sources.
Q10. What is a standalone solar pumping system?
A standalone system operates only on solar energy without grid support. It is suitable for remote areas. It provides water pumping during sunlight hours.
Q11. What is a hybrid solar pumping system?
A hybrid system combines solar energy with grid or diesel backup. It ensures continuous operation even during low sunlight conditions. It is useful for critical applications.
Q12. What is the role of a pump controller?
The pump controller regulates power flow from solar panels to the pump. It ensures stable operation under varying sunlight. It also provides protection features.
Q13. What is MPPT in solar pumps?
MPPT (Maximum Power Point Tracking) maximizes energy extraction from solar panels. It adjusts voltage and current to optimal levels. This improves system efficiency.
Q14. What protections are provided in solar pump controllers?
Controllers provide protection against overvoltage, overload, and dry run. They also ensure safe startup and operation. This increases system reliability.
Q15. What is VFD in solar pumping systems?
VFD (Variable Frequency Drive) converts DC to AC and controls motor speed. It adjusts frequency based on solar power availability. This improves efficiency.
Q16. What is the function of mounting structure?
The mounting structure supports solar panels and optimizes their orientation. It maximizes solar energy capture. It is typically made of galvanized iron.
Q17. Why is sunlight intensity important?
Sunlight intensity affects the power generated by the PV array. Higher intensity leads to higher pump output. It directly impacts water discharge.
Q18. What is dry run protection?
Dry run protection prevents pump operation when water is unavailable. It protects the pump from damage. It enhances system lifespan.
Q19. What is the role of cables and protection system?
Cables transmit electrical energy between components. Protection devices safeguard against faults. They ensure safe system operation.
Q20. What are advantages of solar pumps?
They are eco-friendly, low maintenance, and cost-effective. They reduce dependency on fossil fuels. They are ideal for rural applications.
Q21. What is water discharge in pumps?
Water discharge refers to the volume of water pumped per day. It depends on system capacity and head. It is measured in liters per day.
Q22. How does pump speed vary?
Pump speed varies with sunlight intensity. Higher sunlight increases motor speed. Controllers adjust speed automatically.
Q23. What is system efficiency in solar pumps?
Efficiency depends on PV module efficiency, controller performance, and pump design. Higher efficiency results in better water output.
Q24. Why are solar pumps useful in agriculture?
They provide irrigation without fuel costs. They are reliable and operate in remote areas. They support sustainable farming.
Q25. What is the importance of system sizing?
Proper sizing ensures adequate water supply and optimal performance. Oversizing increases cost, while undersizing reduces output.
PART 2: Solar Cookers (Q26–50)
Q26. What is solar cooking?
Solar cooking is the process of using sunlight to cook food. It converts solar radiation into heat energy using solar thermal devices. It reduces dependence on conventional fuels.
Q27. Why is cooking important?
Cooking improves digestibility, taste, and safety of food. It breaks down complex molecules like starch and proteins. It enhances nutrition and aroma.
Q28. What are disadvantages of traditional cooking fuels?
Traditional fuels cause health hazards, environmental pollution, and are time-consuming. They are also unsustainable and inefficient. Solar cooking helps overcome these issues.
Q29. What is the principle of solar cooking?
Solar cooking involves collecting solar radiation, converting it into heat, and retaining it. The heat is transferred to food through cooking containers.
Q30. What are advantages of solar cookers?
Solar cookers are renewable, eco-friendly, and cost-effective. They reduce fuel consumption and pollution. They are especially useful in rural areas.
Q31. What are limitations of solar cookers?
They require sunlight and cannot be used during cloudy weather or night. Cooking takes longer time. They cannot replace all cooking methods.
Q32. What is a box type solar cooker?
It is the simplest solar cooker with insulated box and glass cover. It traps heat to cook food slowly. It is widely used for basic cooking.
Q33. What are components of a box solar cooker?
It includes outer box, inner box, insulation, glass cover, mirror, absorber plate, and cooking vessels. These components help in heat absorption and retention.
Q34. Why can’t box cookers be used for frying?
Box cookers do not reach very high temperatures required for frying. They are suitable only for boiling and slow cooking. Hence they cannot replace all cooking methods.
Q35. What is a panel solar cooker?
It uses reflective panels to concentrate sunlight onto a cooking pot. It is portable and inexpensive. It is suitable for boiling and warming food.
Q36. What is maximum temperature of panel cookers?
Panel cookers can reach temperatures around 120°C. This is sufficient for boiling but not for frying or baking.
Q37. What is an evacuated tube solar cooker?
It uses evacuated glass tubes to trap heat efficiently. It can reach higher temperatures and cook a variety of foods. It is more efficient than basic cookers.
Q38. What is the temperature range of evacuated tube cookers?
They can reach temperatures between 220°C to 290°C. This allows cooking of meat, vegetables, and baking.
Q39. What precautions are required for tube cookers?
Avoid pre-heating empty tubes and placing cold food in hot tubes. Do not expose empty tubes to sunlight. These precautions prevent damage.
Q40. What is a parabolic dish solar cooker?
It uses a reflective dish to focus sunlight at a focal point. It produces very high temperatures. It is suitable for frying and grilling.
Q41. What is temperature of parabolic cookers?
They can reach temperatures between 260°C to 350°C. This allows fast cooking and frying. They are highly efficient.
Q42. What is solar steam cooking?
It uses concentrated solar energy to generate steam. Steam is used for cooking large quantities of food. It is used in institutions and industries.
Q43. What is a solar PV electric cooker?
It uses electricity generated from solar panels. It operates like an electric stove using induction. It can cook indoors.
Q44. Who are target users of solar cookers?
Rural households, urban users, and commercial sectors like hotels and hospitals. It reduces fuel consumption in all sectors.
Q45. What is the efficiency of solar cookers?
Efficiency is around 20–25% with black coating. It can improve up to 50–60% with advanced coatings.
Q46. What is the role of reflector in solar cooker?
Reflectors concentrate sunlight onto the cooking area. This increases temperature and efficiency. It improves cooking performance.
Q47. What is absorber plate?
It is a surface coated with black material to absorb maximum heat. It converts solar radiation into thermal energy. It enhances cooking efficiency.
Q48. Why is insulation important?
Insulation reduces heat loss from the cooker. It maintains internal temperature. It improves efficiency and cooking speed.
Q49. What type of cooking is best suited for solar cookers?
Slow cooking methods like boiling, steaming, and baking are best suited. High-temperature frying is limited to advanced cookers.
Q50. How do solar cookers help environment?
They reduce deforestation and pollution. They minimize use of fossil fuels. They promote sustainable energy use.
🔹 PART 3: Solar Water Heaters (Q51–75)
Q51. What is solar radiation?
Solar radiation is energy emitted by the sun in the form of electromagnetic waves. It includes UV, visible, and infrared radiation. Infrared is mainly responsible for heating.
Q52. How does natural water heating occur?
Infrared radiation heats water bodies by exciting molecules. Heat is absorbed mostly at the surface layer. This process increases water temperature naturally.
Q53. What is a solar water heater?
It uses solar energy to heat water through collectors. It reduces electricity consumption. It is widely used in homes and industries.
Q54. What are types of collectors?
Collectors are classified as low, medium, and high temperature types. Examples include flat plate and evacuated tube collectors. Each serves different applications.
Q55. What is a flat plate collector?
It uses greenhouse effect to trap heat. It converts solar radiation into thermal energy. It typically provides 40°C–80°C water.
Q56. What is an evacuated tube collector?
It consists of vacuum tubes that reduce heat loss. It provides higher efficiency and temperature. It works well in cold climates.
Q57. What is thermosyphon system?
It is a passive system where water circulates naturally due to density difference. No pump is required. It is simple and reliable.
Q58. What is active heating system?
It uses pumps to circulate water or fluid. It provides better control and efficiency. It is used in larger systems.
Q59. What is importance of orientation?
Correct orientation maximizes solar radiation capture. South-facing direction is ideal. Improper orientation reduces efficiency.
Q60. What is daily hot water requirement?
It depends on occupancy. Typically, 50 liters per person per day is required. This helps in system sizing.
Q61. What is pressurized system?
It operates under pressure and is suitable for high-rise buildings. It provides better water flow. It is more advanced than non-pressurized systems.
Q62. What is non-pressurized system?
It operates without pressure and uses gravity flow. It is simpler and cost-effective. It is suitable for small households.
Q63. What materials are used in ETC?
Evacuated tubes are made of borosilicate glass. This material provides high strength and heat resistance. It improves efficiency.
Q64. What is greenhouse effect in collectors?
It traps heat inside the collector by preventing heat escape. It increases water temperature. It improves efficiency.
Q65. What is heat transfer process?
Heat transfer occurs through conduction, convection, and radiation. These processes heat water in collectors.
Q66. What is storage tank function?
It stores heated water for later use. It maintains temperature for longer duration. It ensures availability of hot water.
Q67. What is application of solar water heaters?
They are used in homes, hotels, hospitals, and industries. They reduce energy costs. They are eco-friendly.
Q68. What is advantage of ETC over FPC?
ETC has higher efficiency and works better in cold climates. It provides higher temperatures. It has lower heat loss.
Q69. What is stagnation temperature?
It is the maximum temperature reached when no water flows. It indicates system performance.
Q70. What is importance of insulation?
Insulation reduces heat loss from pipes and tanks. It maintains efficiency. It improves system performance.
Q71. What is manifold in ETC?
It connects multiple tubes and transfers heat to water. It distributes flow evenly. It improves efficiency.
Q72. What is collector efficiency?
It is the ratio of useful heat output to solar input. Higher efficiency means better performance.
Q73. What factors affect performance?
Solar radiation, orientation, insulation, and collector type affect performance. Proper design improves output.
Q74. What is installation requirement?
Proper tilt angle and orientation are required. Secure mounting ensures safety. Correct piping ensures efficiency.
Q75. Why use solar water heaters?
They save energy and reduce electricity bills. They are environmentally friendly. They provide long-term benefits.
🔹 PART 4: Net Metering (Q76–100)
Q76. What is net metering?
Net metering allows exporting excess solar electricity to the grid. It provides credits for unused energy. It balances consumption and generation.
Q77. What is bidirectional meter?
It measures both import and export of electricity. It records net energy usage. It is essential in net metering.
Q78. What is benefit of net metering?
It reduces electricity bills and provides financial credits. It eliminates need for batteries. It is cost-effective.
Q79. What is grid-connected system?
It connects solar PV system to utility grid. It allows energy exchange. It improves reliability.
Q80. What happens to excess energy?
Excess energy is exported to the grid. It is credited to consumer account. It can be used later.
Q81. What is energy credit?
It represents units of electricity exported to grid. Each credit equals one kWh. It reduces future bills.
Q82. What is billing cycle?
Billing is done monthly or annually. Net consumption is calculated. Credits are adjusted accordingly.
Q83. What is role of inverter?
It converts DC from panels into AC. It synchronizes with grid. It enables grid connection.
Q84. What is gross metering?
All generated electricity is exported to grid. Consumer is paid fixed tariff. It differs from net metering.
Q85. What is feed-in tariff?
It is fixed payment for each unit exported. It is usually lower than retail rate. It encourages solar adoption.
Q86. What is JNNSM?
Jawaharlal Nehru National Solar Mission launched in 2010. It promotes solar energy in India. It sets capacity targets.
Q87. What is rooftop solar target?
Government set 40 GW rooftop solar target. It promotes distributed generation. It supports renewable growth.
Q88. What is grid as storage?
Grid acts as virtual storage system. Excess energy is stored in grid. It eliminates need for batteries.
Q89. What is net meter arrangement?
It includes PV system, inverter, meter, and grid connection. It allows two-way energy flow.
Q90. What is unit of electricity?
Electricity is measured in kilowatt-hour (kWh). It represents energy consumption.
Q91. What is solar generation meter?
It measures energy produced by solar system. It helps track performance.
Q92. What is role of government?
Government sets policies and regulations. It promotes solar adoption. It provides incentives.
Q93. What is energy import?
Energy drawn from grid when solar generation is insufficient. It is billed normally.
Q94. What is energy export?
Energy sent to grid when generation exceeds consumption. It earns credits.
Q95. What is advantage over battery systems?
No need for expensive batteries. Lower maintenance cost. Better efficiency.
Q96. What is load in system?
Load is electricity consumption by appliances. It determines energy demand.
Q97. What is transformer role?
It steps up/down voltage for grid connection. It ensures safe transmission.
Q98. What is distributed generation?
Electricity generated near consumption point. It reduces transmission losses.
Q99. What is importance of net metering?
It encourages solar adoption and reduces bills. It supports renewable energy integration.
Q100. What is overall benefit of solar policies?
They promote clean energy, reduce emissions, and support sustainability. They help achieve national energy targets.