subject: Photovoltaic cells work on the atomic level [print this page] Photovoltaic cells work on the atomic level
The generation of electricity from photovoltaic cells has been a reality for many years, but it does not yet contribute a significant fraction of overall electricity generation. A reason for this is that electricity generated by photovoltaic cells is more expensive than conventionally generated electricity, mainly because the cost of individual photovoltaic cells is still high. There are two approaches that can be used to reduce costs. One option is to manufacture the cells from cheaper materials, but this generally leads to a lower conversion efficiency. Alternatively, cell efficiency may be increased. High efficiency cells can be used in solar concentrators where light from the sun is collected over a large area and concentrated onto a smaller area photovoltaic cell , or in thermophotovoltaic systems where the cells are illuminated by high intensity light generated from a hot source such is as created by the combustion of fuel.
Photovoltaic cells work on the atomic level, operating by the physical principle of the photoelectric effect, which the semiconductors perform. Each photon, or particle of light, has certain energy, which the PV cell absorbs and converts to electricity.For every photon of light that strikes the semiconductor of a PV cell , one electron is released. When the semiconductor is attached to a circuit, the release of electrons forms an electric current in direct current (DC) form. The silicon material of the cell absorbs the photon and releases the electron to the attached circuit.
Photovoltaic cells are used in solar panels, to convert light energy to electricity when other sources of electricity are not readily available. Satellites, space shuttles and the International Space Station all utilize photovoltaic cells in solar panels.Solar energy is popular because it is a form of renewable energy and does not rely on fossil fuels, which makes it more environmentally friendly. Presently, it is still more expensive than other common sources of electricity, but the semiconducting materials are readily available and the course of technological development has made it gradually more cost-effective. Solar-powered calculators and other common devices use photovoltaic cells supplier today.
