Insolation is a term used in the field of solar energy that refers to the amount of solar radiation that reaches a certain surface. The pronunciation of this word is [ɪnˈsoʊleɪʃən]. The first syllable is "in" as in "inside", followed by "sole" as in the bottom of your shoe, and ending with "ation" as in "creation". The spelling of this word is based on the Latin root "insula" meaning island, which in this context refers to a solar cell's active area or "island" of surface collecting solar radiation.
Insolation is a term with two distinct meanings depending on the context in which it is used. In the field of meteorology and climatology, insolation refers to the amount of solar radiation received per unit area on a given surface. It is a measure of the incoming solar energy received by the Earth's surface, typically expressed in watts per square meter (W/m²). Insolation is influenced by various factors, including the angle of the sun's rays, the length of daylight, and atmospheric conditions such as cloud cover and pollution. It plays a critical role in determining climate patterns, heating the Earth's surface, and influencing weather phenomena.
On the other hand, in the medical field, insolation is used to describe the condition of being exposed to excessive amounts of sunlight, resulting in sunburn or sunstroke. Such overexposure to the sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays can cause skin damage, including redness, blistering, and pain. Prolonged and repeated instances of insolation can increase the risk of developing skin cancer. It is therefore important to protect oneself from insolation by wearing appropriate protective clothing, using sunscreen, seeking shade, and avoiding direct sunlight during peak hours.
In summary, insolation refers either to the amount of solar radiation received by a surface or the harmful effects of excessive sun exposure on the skin.
Exposure to the sun's rays for drying or maturing, as fruits, drugs, &c.; a stroke of the sun.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "insolation" derives from the Latin word "insolatio", which is a combination of the prefix "in-" (meaning "in" or "on") and "sol" (meaning "sun"). The Latin term was derived from the noun "solatio", meaning "to expose to the sun" or "to be in the sun". Eventually, "insolation" came to be used in scientific and technical contexts to refer specifically to solar radiation or exposure to the sun.