Solar Cells

Solar Cells

The generation of electricity using solar cells isn't due to the photoelectric effect but is similar in nature. Photons in sunlight hit the solar panel and are absorbed by semiconducting materials, such as silicon.

Electrons (negatively charged) are knocked loose from their atoms, allowing them to flow through the material to produce electricity. This is called the photovoltaic effect. The photovoltaic effect was first observed by French physicist Antoine E. Becquerel in 1839.

Due to the special composition of solar cells, the electrons are only allowed to move in a single direction. An array of solar cells converts solar energy into a usable amount of direct current (DC) electricity.