How can solar energy be harnessed? Mention any two limitations in using solar energy. How are these limitations overcome?

Solar energy can be harnessed by using a solar cooker. Solar cooker is the device which uses solar energy for cooking of food. Solar cooker functions as follows:

It is made up of an insulating wooden box which is painted with black colour from inside. The box is covered with a glass and consists of a plane mirror which reflect the radiations of sun and focus the rays from Sun. The food which is to be cooked is kept in the containers inside the Solar cooker and then they are covered with the glass sheet. The Rays coming from the Sun are absorbed by the black surface of the box and there is rise in the temperature which led to cook the food.

The limitations in using the solar energy are as follows:

1. Solar cooker can’t be used at night because of absence of Sun’s radiations.

2. There is a need to change the direction of the reflector so that radiations should fall on the solar cooker.

The limitations can be overcome by using a solar cell which converts solar energy into electricity.