The efficiency of the conversion of solar energy into wind energy by means of Hadley cells
Abstract
In the present paper, we apply endoreversible thermodynamics in order to calculate the upper bound for the fraction of solar energy absorbed by the Earth, that can be converted into the mechanical energy present in the atmosphere. We assume the presence of six Hadley cells in the Earth's wind system and find an upper limit of 1.17%. For Mars we assume a single Hadley cell and find an upper limit of 0.87%.
- Publication:
-
Theoretical and Applied Climatology
- Pub Date:
- December 1993
- DOI:
- 10.1007/BF00865706
- Bibcode:
- 1993ThApC..46..193V