Photovoltaic Cells: Introduction and Construction

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Questions and Answers

What happens to the electrons in a photovoltaic cell when an external current path is provided?

They stop moving completely.

They accumulate in the P-side.

They flow towards the N-side. (correct)

They randomly disperse in all directions.

Which application of photovoltaic cells is primarily used for generating electricity in residential buildings?

Solar water pumping

Solar-powered transportation

Space applications

Residential solar power (correct)

What is one major disadvantage of photovoltaic cells mentioned?

They require a lot of maintenance.

Their production is low during winters and cloudy days. (correct)

They involve no initial investment.

They are not renewable.

Which of the following best describes the primary use of photovoltaic cells in solar power plants?

To generate large amounts of electricity for distribution. Signup and view all the answers

What characterizes the energy produced by photovoltaic cells?

It is clean and environmentally sustainable. Signup and view all the answers

What type of applications rely on photovoltaic cells to power vehicles?

Solar-powered transportation applications Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is an advantage of photovoltaic cells?

They have minimal upkeep expenses. Signup and view all the answers

What is a common use of photovoltaic cells in portable electronics?

To power solar chargers and lanterns. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of a photovoltaic cell?

To capture solar energy and convert it into electrical energy Signup and view all the answers

What are the two types of materials used in the construction of a photovoltaic cell?

P-type and N-type Signup and view all the answers

Which layer of a photovoltaic cell is responsible for trapping solar energy?

PN junction layer Signup and view all the answers

How does a photovoltaic cell primarily generate electricity?

By liberating electron-hole pairs upon photon absorption Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of the anti-reflective material in a photovoltaic cell?

To trap light energy and reduce energy loss Signup and view all the answers

What occurs at the depletion region of the PN junction in a photovoltaic cell?

Electron-hole pairs are generated if incident energy is sufficient Signup and view all the answers

What happens to the flow of electric current in a photovoltaic cell?

It is allowed to flow in one direction only Signup and view all the answers

What does the term 'photovoltaic' refer to?

Combination of light capture and voltage generation Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Photovoltaic Cells: Introduction

A photovoltaic (PV) cell is an electronic device that converts solar energy into electrical energy.
The term "photovoltaic" combines "photo" (from Greek "phos," meaning light) and "voltaic" (from Alessandro Volta).
PV cells, also known as solar cells, directly convert light energy to electricity using the photovoltaic effect.
They typically operate in a reverse bias environment.

Photovoltaic Cell Construction

The basic components of a PV cell are:
- Solar radiation (photons/light)
- Glass Lens and Conductive Strips
- P-type silicon and N-type silicon and a PN junction
- Depletion layer (in between these materials)
- Anti-reflective coating (on the surface)
The junction diode is responsible for capturing solar energy and converting it into electricity.
The N-type layer (emitter layer), and P-type layer (base layer) and an intermediate junction diode.
The surface is covered in an anti-reflective coating which helps to trap light energy.

Configuration of Photovoltaic Cells

PV cells are organized into modules, panels, and arrays based on electrical connections.

Working Principle of PV Cells

Photovoltaic cells work similar to a diode, allowing current flow in one direction.
Photons striking the cell are absorbed by the semiconductor, producing electron-hole pairs.
In a solar cell, the junction area is large compared to the cell causing the main purpose is power generation.
If the photon energy is more than the semiconductor material's energy gap, electron-hole pairs form in the depletion region, causing current flow.
The magnitude of the generated electromotive force (EMF) is directly proportional to the intensity of the incident radiation.

Applications of PV Cells

Residential solar power
Solar power plants
Solar water pumping
Solar-powered transportation (cars, bicycles, boats, and aircraft)
Space applications (satellites, spacecraft)
Portable electronics and charging stations

Advantages of PV Cells

Environmentally friendly and produce clean energy
Minimal upkeep expenses
Readily accessible and renewable energy source
Can be utilized for extended periods

Disadvantages of PV Cells

Low production during winter and cloudy days
High installation and initial material costs
High space consumption

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Description

Explore the fundamentals of photovoltaic (PV) cells, including their construction and the principles behind converting solar energy into electricity. This quiz covers essential components like silicon layers, junctions, and coatings essential for their operation.