Question

Describe the Working of a Solar Cell with proper diagram.

Please write neat. Thx

Answer 1

A solar cell (also known as a photovoltaic cell or PV cell) is defined as an electrical device that converts light energy into electrical energy through the photovoltaic effect. A solar cell is basically a p-n junction diode. Solar cells are a form of photoelectric cell, defined as a device whose electrical characteristics – such as current, voltage, or resistance – vary when exposed to light.

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​​​​Construction

A solar cell is basically a junction diode, although its construction it is little bit different from conventional p-n junction diodes. A very thin layer of p-type semiconductor is grown on a relatively thicker n-type semiconductor. We then apply a few finer electrodes on the top of the p-type semiconductor layer.

These electrodes do not obstruct light to reach the thin p-type layer. Just below the p-type layer there is a p-n junction. We also provide a current collecting electrode at the bottom of the n-type layer. We encapsulate the entire assembly by thin glass to protect the solar cell from any mechanical shock.

WORKING

When light reaches the p-n junction, the light photons can easily enter in the junction, through very thin p-type layer. The light energy, in the form of photons, supplies sufficient energy to the junction to create a number of electron-hole pairs. The incident light breaks the thermal equilibrium condition of the junction. The free electrons in the depletion region can quickly come to the n-type side of the junction.

Similarly, the holes in the depletion can quickly come to the p-type side of the junction. Once, the newly created free electrons come to the n-type side, cannot further cross the junction because of barrier potential of the junction.

Similarly, the newly created holes once come to the p-type side cannot further cross the junction became of same barrier potential of the junction. As the concentration of electrons becomes higher in one side, i.e. n-type side of the junction and concentration of holes becomes more in another side, i.e. the p-type side of the junction, the p-n junction will behave like a small battery cell. A voltage is set up which is known as photo voltage. If we connect a small load across the junction, there will be a tiny current flowing through it.

Voltage Current charachar stics diagram of solar cell and solar cell diagram