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Question

(a) What is a solar cell ? Draw the labelled diagram of a solar cell.
(b) Name the semi-conductor material which is usually used for making solar cells.
(c) Write the uses of solar cells.

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Solution

a) -

Solar cell, also called photovoltaic cell, any device that directly converts the energy of light into electrical energy through the photovoltaic effect. The overwhelming majority of solar cells are fabricated from silicon—with increasing efficiency and lowering cost as the materials range from amorphous (noncrystalline) to polycrystalline to crystalline (single crystal) silicon forms. Unlike batteries or fuel cells, solar cells do not utilize chemical reactions or require fuel to produce electric power, and, unlike electric generators, they do not have any moving parts.

A commonly used solar cell structure. In many such cells, the absorber layer and the back junction layer are both made of the same material. A commonly used solar cell structure. In many such cells, the absorber layer and the back junction layer are both made of the same material.


b) - Solar cells can be classified into first, second and third generation cells. The first generation cells—also called conventional, traditional or wafer-based cells—are made of crystalline silicon, the commercially predominant PV technology, that includes materials such as polysilicon and monocrystalline silicon.

c) -

  • Renewable energy - The energy can be used both to generate electricity and heat in the house. Renewable energy is recovered from the sun, the wind and waves - which in this case is the sun. Solar cells harness the energy from the sun and transform this into usable electricity.
  • Economy-friendly energy - Solar cells provide a great opportunity to create savings on your electric bill since you do not pay for the energy that you generate. At the same time you have the opportunity to monetize your photovoltaic system, if you have a solar system with a grid connected installation, you can buy and sell electricity to the collective electricity network. At the same time, you can obtain several grants for solar cells and there will be more economic benefits to be gained in the future.
  • Environmentally friendly energy - With solar cells occurs almost no pollution. The discharge of waste and pollution is unavoidable in relation to the production of solar cells, the transport of these and when you install them. However, this is a minimal fraction, compared to if one draws its energy from elsewhere.
  • Innovative energy - Photovoltaics is a popular topic in green energy and is considered to be a good solution to prevent climate change. Therefore, this is an innovative market under continuous research and development.
  • Infinite Energy - When you have the opportunity to extract energy from the sun's rays, this is a source of energy that will never be exhausted, therefore there will always be a source for electricity production.
  • Long term energy - PV systems often have a long life and a good durability. At the same time, there is often a guarantee of minimum 20 years on your solar panels, guaranteeing you, should there be any complications.
  • Selling energy - If your home has solar cells, it is often easier to sell the property at a higher price.

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