PHOTOVOLTAIC CELL Meaning and
Definition
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A photovoltaic cell, also known as a solar cell or PV cell, is a key component of photovoltaic technology that converts sunlight directly into electricity through the photovoltaic effect. The photovoltaic cell is composed mainly of a semiconductor material, usually silicon, which exhibits an inherent property that enables it to absorb photons from light sources and generate an electric current.
The energy conversion process begins when sunlight, composed of photons, strikes the surface of the photovoltaic cell. These photons penetrate the cell and interact with the semiconductor material, causing the release of electrons. The released electrons then flow through an external circuit, creating an electric current. This electric current can be used to power various electrical devices, charge batteries, or be fed into the electrical grid for distribution.
Photovoltaic cells can come in various forms and materials, ranging from thin-film solar cells to crystalline silicon solar cells. They are widely deployed as a sustainable and renewable energy solution, providing clean and efficient electricity generation while reducing carbon emissions. These cells can be found in solar panels used for residential, commercial, and utility-scale solar power systems.
With advancements in photovoltaic technology, researchers are continuously exploring new materials and designs to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and improve the overall performance of photovoltaic cells. As renewable energy becomes increasingly important in the global energy landscape, photovoltaic cells play a crucial role in harnessing the power of the sun and enabling a cleaner and more sustainable future.
Common Misspellings for PHOTOVOLTAIC CELL
- ohotovoltaic cell
- lhotovoltaic cell
- -hotovoltaic cell
- 0hotovoltaic cell
- pgotovoltaic cell
- pbotovoltaic cell
- pnotovoltaic cell
- pjotovoltaic cell
- puotovoltaic cell
- pyotovoltaic cell
- phitovoltaic cell
- phktovoltaic cell
- phltovoltaic cell
- phptovoltaic cell
- ph0tovoltaic cell
- ph9tovoltaic cell
- phorovoltaic cell
- phofovoltaic cell
- phogovoltaic cell
- photovoltaiccell
Etymology of PHOTOVOLTAIC CELL
The word "photovoltaic" comes from the combination of two Greek words: "photo" meaning "light" and "voltaic" which refers to electricity. The term was coined in the mid-19th century by the French physicist Alexandre-Edmond Becquerel. The word "cell" in this context refers to a device that converts light energy into electricity. Ultimately, "photovoltaic cell" describes a device that directly converts sunlight (photons) into electrical energy (voltage).
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