We have been using solar cell calculators in door. It is the same technology used in Solar Panel that work with Light.
Solar Cells: How they Work
What’s a solar cell?
A solar cell is a device that converts sunlight into electricity using certain materials with semiconducting properties, like silicon. These materials use the “photovoltaic effect.” (We won’t go into detail here about how the photovoltaic effect works, but basically, when light hits a material like silicon, it knocks tiny electrons loose; when those electrons start to flow, that produces electricity). Solar cells assembled together create solar panels. The photovoltaic effect was first discovered in the 1800s, and the first solar cell was actually made in 1883, though it was only 1% efficient. It wasn’t until 1954 that the modern, efficient solar cell was created.
How solar cells are used
Solar cells are usually packed up in something called a “module,” with a sheet of glass on the side that will face the sun. That allows light to pass through while protecting the cells from weather like rain or snow. Cells can be hooked up in series and in parallel to create more power within a module, and then modules themselves can also be interconnected to create solar panels with the amount of power you need. (To read more about power in solar cells and solar panels, check out our article on solar watts).
Solar cells are also used directly in electronic devices, like flashlights or cell phone chargers. This backpack can actually charge a laptop while you walk around outside.
Types of solar cells
Most solar cells use silicon wafers to absorb sunlight and change it into electricity. Silicon cells range in efficiency; the most efficient cells are more expensive, but are a good choice if you have limited space for solar panels. (Efficiency just means that you can produce more electricity using a smaller array of cells). A small percentage of solar cells use thin-film technology, which are cheaper because they’re made from less material. Unfortunately, they’re much less efficient than silicon cells, so they’re not a good choice for roofs. Check out our article on the different types of solar panels to learn more.
Read more at howsolarworks.1bog.org
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