Which of the following is an advantage of solar energy over other sources of energy?

Step 1: Analyze the question The question asks for an advantage of solar energy compared with other energy sources, such as fossil fuels (coal, petroleum, natural gas).

Step 2: Explain the concept Solar energy comes from the sun's radiation. Its main strengths are:

• It is renewable. It is not used up, because the sun keeps shining.
• It is clean, with no smoke or greenhouse gases during use.
• It is free and widely available, especially in tropical countries like Nigeria.

Step 3: Evaluate each option

• A. It is easily renewable. This is correct. Sunlight is replenished continuously and cannot be exhausted, unlike coal or crude oil.
• B. It requires physical gradient difference. This is wrong. A gradient (slope or height difference) is needed for hydroelectric power, where water must fall from a height. Solar energy does not need it.
• C. The demand for it comes from specialized agencies. This is not an advantage. It says nothing about the energy's benefits.
• D. Its waste is different. This is vague and is not a recognized advantage. The real advantage is that solar produces little or no waste, not that its waste is "different."

Step 4: Answer The correct option is **A.

Exam tip: In questions about "advantages of solar energy," look for the keywords renewable, clean, inexhaustible, or non-polluting. Remember that "gradient" points to hydroelectric power, so you can eliminate B quickly.