Photovoltaic cells

Definition

Photovoltaic cells are devices that convert sunlight directly into electricity using the photovoltaic effect. These cells are a fundamental component of solar panels, making them vital for harnessing solar energy as a renewable power source and contributing to low-carbon technologies aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Photovoltaic cells typically use semiconductor materials, like silicon, which generate an electric current when exposed to sunlight.
2. The efficiency of photovoltaic cells has improved significantly over the years, with some modern cells converting over 20% of sunlight into usable electricity.
3. Photovoltaic technology can be deployed in various applications, from small-scale residential systems to large solar farms generating power for utilities.
4. The use of photovoltaic cells contributes to reducing reliance on fossil fuels and decreases carbon emissions, promoting a sustainable energy future.
5. Government incentives and decreasing production costs have led to a dramatic increase in the installation of photovoltaic systems worldwide.

Review Questions

• How do photovoltaic cells function to convert sunlight into electricity?
  • Photovoltaic cells function through the photovoltaic effect, where sunlight strikes the semiconductor material within the cell, exciting electrons and creating an electric current. This process involves two layers of semiconductor materials, typically silicon, that create an electric field. When photons from sunlight hit the cell, they transfer their energy to electrons, allowing them to flow and generate electricity.
• Discuss the role of photovoltaic cells in promoting renewable energy solutions and their impact on carbon emissions.
  • Photovoltaic cells play a crucial role in promoting renewable energy solutions by providing a clean and sustainable way to generate electricity. As they harness solar energy, which is abundant and renewable, they help reduce reliance on fossil fuels. This shift not only decreases greenhouse gas emissions but also supports efforts to combat climate change by transitioning towards a low-carbon energy landscape.
• Evaluate the economic and technological factors driving the growth of photovoltaic cell installations globally.
  • The growth of photovoltaic cell installations globally is driven by several economic and technological factors. Technologically, advancements in solar cell efficiency and production methods have made photovoltaic systems more affordable and accessible. Economically, government incentives, declining costs of raw materials, and increasing demand for clean energy have fueled investment in solar technologies. Together, these elements create a favorable environment for widespread adoption of photovoltaic systems in both residential and commercial sectors.

Related terms

Solar Energy: The energy obtained from the sun's radiation, which can be converted into electricity or heat.

Renewable Energy: Energy that is generated from natural processes that are continuously replenished, such as sunlight, wind, and water.

Inverter: A device that converts direct current (DC) electricity produced by photovoltaic cells into alternating current (AC) electricity, which is used in homes and businesses.