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Set 327: Energy Meteorology Question Paper

Set 327: Energy Meteorology

Course:Bachelor Of Science In Energy Engineering

Institution: Kenyatta University question papers

Exam Year:2008

KENYATTA UNIVERSITY
UNIVERSITY EXAMINATIONS 2007/2008
SECOND SEMESTER EXAMINATION FOR THE DEGREE OF
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE (ENERGY ENGINEERING)

SET 327: ENERGY METEOROLOGY

DATE: Wednesday 30th April 2008 TIME: 8.00am – 10.00am

INSTRUCTIONS:

1.
This paper consists of FIVE questions
2.
Answer any THREE questions
3.
ALL questions carry equal marks and mark distribution are indicated

Question 1
(a)
By means of a schematic flow diagram, show a generalized stages of a
measurement system.
(b)
(i)
Discuss three types of errors associated with taking observations and
measurements using instruments.

[5 marks]
(ii)
Explain three sources of errors in using data from measuring instruments.
[3 marks]
(c)
Explain the difference between precision and accuracy in measurements.

[2 marks]
(d)
Explain the process of calibration and state 3 reasons why measurements are
important in experimental work.

[5 marks]

Question 2
(a)
Define the following terms associated with solar radiation
(i)
Beam radiation
(ii)
Diffuse radiation

1
________________________________________
(iii)
Irradiance
(iv)
Total radiation

[4 marks]
(b)
State 5 aspects of solar radiation data that are important for its understanding and
use.

[5 marks]
(c)
Sketch the variation of total solar radiation on an horizontal surface for a clear day
and for a largely cloudy day against time duration of 6AM to 6PM. [3 marks]
(d)
In the absence of solar radiation data, maps can be used as a source of information
for average radiation. Give two disadvantages of using solar radiation maps.

[2 marks]
(e)
State SIX factors that influence the amount of solar radiation reaching the earth’s
surface.

[6 marks]

Question 3
(a)
Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of utilization solar energy. [8 marks]
(b)
A pyranometer is a type of instrument used to measure solar irradiance on a
planar surface and is a sensor that is designed to measure solar radiation flux
density in watts/m2. With the use of a sketch, show the major components of a
pyranometer. Also briefly explain the working or operation of a pyranometer.

[12 marks]

Question 4
(a)
Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of wind energy.
[8 marks]
(b)
Explain the following terms associated with wind energy.
(i)
Coriolis force
(ii)
Geostrophic wind
(iii)
Surface wind

[4 marks]
(c)
Discuss with sketches the global formation of wind as a result of energy from the
sun.

[8 marks]

Question 5
(a)
Discuss the major components of anemometers and also discuss the elements of
an anemometer that describe its functional characteristics.
[8 marks]

2
________________________________________
(b)
Explain the following terms associated with wind resource assessment.
(i)
Wind power density
(ii)
Shear
(iii)
Turbulence
(iv)
Frequency distribution
(v)
Wind rose.

[5 marks]
(c)
(i)
A quick and easy initial assessment of the wind resource at a potential site
is essential to prevent wasting time and money preparing an unsuitable
site. Explain 2 ways this can be done.

[2 marks]
(ii)
State 5 kinds of data that provide vital information in wind resource
assessment.

[5 marks]

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Set 327: Energy Meteorology Question Paper

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