What is Solar Cells

                               What is  Solar Cells  ?

              

Solar cells are devices which convert solar light energy directly into electricity and function by the photo-voltaic effect.  Photo- means light and -voltaic means electrical current or electricity  (light-electricity).  A solar cell provides direct current (DC) electricity that can be used to power DC motors and light bulbs among other things.  Solar cells can even be used to charge rechargeable batteries so that electricity can be stored for later use when the sun is not available. The fully charged batteries are portable energy that can be used whenever and wherever they are needed.

Solar cells provide DC electricity similar to batteries however, batteries differ because they operate through a process known as an electrochemical reaction.  This process will provide an electrical current (electro-) from a chemical reaction (-chemical) that occurs inside the battery.  When you hook up a motor to the battery, also known as a load, the reaction begins and electrons flow as shown in the picture: "Battery Circuit".  Direct current (DC electricity) is different from the alternating current (AC electricity) that is used to power the TV, refrigerator, and other appliances in your home however, DC can be converted to AC when needed