In Problem 47, we noted that the intensity of sunlight reaching the Earth is about 1400 W/m

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In Problem 47, we noted that the intensity of sunlight reaching the Earth is about 1400 W/m2

(a) What is the intensity of sunlight at Mars?

(b) The Martian “rovers” (small robots that move about on wheels) sent to explore the surface of Mars use solar panels to charge their batteries. If the solar intensity on the Earth is sufficient to power such a rover, do you think the solar intensity on Mars is large enough to fully power a rover on that planet? 

(c) Scientists have proposed sending such rovers to investigate Europa, one of Jupiter’s moons. What is the solar intensity at Europa? Do you think a solar- powered rover would work on Europa?


Data From Problem 47

The intensity of sunlight at the top of the Earth’s atmosphere is about 1400 W/m2. (The intensity at the surface of the Earth is somewhat smaller due to absorption and reflection by the atmosphere.) What is the total power emitted by the Sun?

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