Solar Cell- An Overview
Solar energy is the conversion of sunlight into electricity. It’s a renewable energy source that’s available daily during daylight hours. Unlike fossil fuels, solar energy doesn’t deplete natural resources or pollute the environment.
A solar cell, also known as a photovoltaic cell, is a device that converts sunlight directly into electricity using the photovoltaic effect.
- Invented by Charles Fritts in the 1880s
- Each cell produces about 0.5 to 0.6 volts
- To generate usable power, multiple cells are connected in series to form a solar panel
✅ Advantages of Solar Panels
- 🌱 Eco-friendly: Produces far less pollution than traditional energy sources
- 🔧 Low maintenance: Once installed, solar panels require minimal upkeep
- 👷♂️ Labor-efficient: Solar plants need fewer personnel compared to conventional power stations
⚠️ Disadvantages of Solar Panels
- 💸 High upfront cost: Installation can be expensive
- 🏞️ Space requirements: Large-scale setups need significant land area
- 🌧️ Weather-dependent: Energy output drops during cloudy or rainy seasons
💡 Common Applications of Solar Cells
Solar cells are used in a wide range of everyday and advanced technologies:
- Street lighting
- Satellites
- Residential and commercial power generation
- Solar battery chargers
- Calculators
🌍 Why Solar Energy Matters
Switching to solar isn’t just a trend—it’s a step toward a cleaner, more sustainable future. With technological advancements and growing affordability, solar energy is becoming accessible to more people around the world.
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