- Solar cell converts solar energy --> electrical energy
- N-type is thin and transparent (top layer) so that photons of sunlight can travel through N-type and hit the junction
- P/N junction and subsequent diffusion of majority charge carriers
- Set up of electric field and establishment of Depletion region (this ensures junction acts as a diode -- current can only flow one way (Really important and explains why Solar Cells produce DC, not AC)
- Light of appropriate frequency hits junction, creates electron-hole pairs
- Electrons and holes can only travel one way (electrons from P --> N and Holes N --> P due to electric field)
- Electrons travel through external circuit, do work on a load (light globe for example) and then recombine with a hole as they re-enter the P-type SC.
Make sure you are able to draw a quick diagram of a Solar Cell, diagrams always aid in explaining complicated concepts, even if the question doesnt necessarily ask for a diagram they are generally included in the higher-level responses from the higher-level students.
