Photovoltaic Cells

Definition

Photovoltaic cells, also known as solar cells, are devices that convert the energy of sunlight directly into electrical energy through the photovoltaic effect. These cells are the fundamental building blocks of solar panels, which are used to harness renewable solar energy for a variety of applications, including electricity generation, powering electronic devices, and providing energy for remote or off-grid locations.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Photovoltaic cells are made from semiconductor materials, typically silicon, that can absorb sunlight and generate an electric current through the photovoltaic effect.
2. The efficiency of photovoltaic cells is a measure of how much of the incoming solar energy is converted into usable electrical energy, with typical commercial solar cells having an efficiency of around 15-20%.
3. Photovoltaic cells are arranged in solar panels to produce a larger amount of electrical power, and these solar panels can be used in a variety of applications, including residential, commercial, and utility-scale electricity generation.
4. The cost of photovoltaic technology has been steadily decreasing over the past few decades, making solar energy more accessible and affordable for a wider range of applications.
5. Photovoltaic cells have no moving parts, making them a reliable and low-maintenance source of renewable energy, with an expected lifespan of 20-30 years or more.

Review Questions

• Explain the photovoltaic effect and how it is used to generate electricity in photovoltaic cells.
  • The photovoltaic effect is the process by which solar energy is converted into electrical energy. When sunlight strikes a semiconductor material, such as the silicon used in photovoltaic cells, the energy of the photons in the sunlight excites electrons in the material, causing them to flow and generate an electric current. This flow of electrons can then be harnessed and used to power electrical devices or be fed into the electrical grid, allowing photovoltaic cells to generate renewable electricity from the sun's energy.
• Describe the role of solar panels in the context of photovoltaic technology and renewable energy sources.
  • Solar panels are the primary components of solar energy systems that utilize photovoltaic cells to generate electricity. They are made up of a collection of interconnected photovoltaic cells that work together to produce a larger amount of electrical power. Solar panels are essential for harnessing the sun's energy and converting it into a usable form of renewable electricity, which can be used to power homes, businesses, and even entire communities. The widespread adoption of solar panels has been a key driver in the growth of solar energy as a viable and sustainable alternative to traditional fossil fuel-based electricity generation.
• Analyze the factors that have contributed to the increasing affordability and accessibility of photovoltaic technology in recent years.
  • The cost of photovoltaic technology has been steadily decreasing over the past few decades, making solar energy more accessible and affordable for a wider range of applications. This is due to several factors, including advancements in manufacturing processes, economies of scale as the industry has grown, and increased competition among solar panel and component manufacturers. Additionally, government incentives and policies, such as tax credits, rebates, and renewable energy mandates, have played a significant role in driving down the cost of solar energy and making it more attractive to consumers and businesses. As a result, the adoption of photovoltaic technology has accelerated, leading to a more sustainable and decentralized energy system that reduces reliance on fossil fuels and promotes environmental stewardship.

Related terms

Photovoltaic Effect: The photovoltaic effect is the process by which solar energy is converted into electrical energy. It occurs when light energy excites electrons in a semiconductor material, causing them to flow and generate an electric current.

Solar Panel: A solar panel is a collection of interconnected photovoltaic cells that work together to generate a larger amount of electrical power. Solar panels are the primary components of solar energy systems used for electricity generation.

Semiconductor Materials: Semiconductor materials, such as silicon, are the foundation of photovoltaic cells. These materials have unique electronic properties that allow them to absorb sunlight and generate an electric current when exposed to light.