Case Study For Solar Cells
Introduction
This case study describes what is, and how a solar cell works; it is a semiconductor device that converts the energy of sunlight into electric energy. It is also called photovoltaic cell.[¹] The semi conductive materials that undergo the photoelectric effect absorb photons and release free electrons to form an electric current. This process was first noted by Bequerel in 1839, and in 1905, Einstein described the nature of light and the photoelectric effect. Initially it was too expensive but since the energy crisis in 1970s photovoltaic technology has expanded in popularity as an alternative source of power.[²]
Solar Cells Theory
Photovoltaic cells are made from semiconductors, for example silicon. A certain portion of the photons from the light that strikes the cell is absorbed and then transferred into the semiconductor material. The electrons then flow freely (DC current), having the energy being shifted in to them.[3] The current produced is directly dependent on the amount of light that reaches the cell. Therefore; the more light energy, the more current and potential difference, and therefore more power. P = I x V
