Why can’t we try and make solar powered commercial airplanes?
Solar panels aren't very efficient, yet. Batteries, too, are very inefficient, and very heavy. It would make much more sense to use solar power to produce a non-petroleum liquid/gas fuel that can power the commercial airplane.
The Short Answer
Solar panels aren't very efficient, yet. Batteries, too, are very inefficient, and very heavy. It would make much more sense to use solar power to produce a non-petroleum liquid/gas fuel that can power the commercial airplane.
Analysis
Key Concepts: Solar, power, panels
This explanation focuses on solar, power, panels and spans 37 words across 3 sentences. At 46% below the average Space & Astronomy explanation (68 words), the answer takes a direct, no-frills approach — sometimes the simplest explanation is the most effective.
What This Answer Covers
The explanation opens with: “Solar panels aren't very efficient, yet.” It then elaboratesultimately building toward a complete picture across 3 connected points.
How This Compares in Space & Astronomy
Ranked #354 of 500 Space & Astronomy questions by answer depth (top 72%). This is in the concise tier — a focused explanation that prioritizes clarity over exhaustiveness. Many readers prefer this level of directness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a simple explanation for why we try and make solar powered commercial airplanes?
Solar panels aren't very efficient, yet. Batteries, too, are very inefficient, and very heavy. It would make much more sense to use solar power to produce a non-petroleum liquid/gas fuel that can power the commercial airplane.
How detailed is this explanation compared to similar Space & Astronomy questions?
This is a focused answer at 37 words, ranked #354 of 500 Space & Astronomy questions by depth. The key concepts covered are solar, power, panels.
What approach does this answer take to explain we try and make solar powered commercial airplanes?
The explanation uses direct explanation across 37 words. It is categorized under Space & Astronomy and addresses the question through 1 analytical lens.