Solar panels capture sunlight and convert it to electricity. They come in many different forms such as solar panels for roofs and spacecraft. They work by allowing photons, which are light-emitting particles, to liberate electrons from atoms. Photovoltaic cells are composed of two slices of semi-conducting materials, usually silicon.
Photovoltaic effect
Solar energy creates an electrical current and voltage when sunlight hits a panel. This is known as the photovoltaic effect. This process produces electricity in both a physical as well as chemical way. It is also a popular method for renewable energy generation.
The amount of electricity produced by solar panels depends on the intensity of the sun and the time of day. Moreover, the number of panels and geographical location also affect the amount of electricity generated.
Silicon atoms
Solar panels are made from silicon atoms that generate electricity. Add energy to pure Silicon and electrons and hole are free. These free carriers wander in the crystalline lattice looking for holes to conduct an electrical current. These carriers are rare in pure silicon. The addition of boron makes the silicon crystals have a few more electrons. It creates empty spaces.
Excited electrons are responsible for producing the electricity in solar cells. They move from the valence to the conduction bands. This creates an electric field that allows electricity to flow inside the solar cells. The free electrons can be called light-generated or hole electrons. This charge can produce a positive, or negative current.
Glass casing
Unlike other materials, glass has a relatively low weight. An average square meter of glass 4mm thick weighs in at 10 kg. This is quite a small amount. There are many thickness options for glass, ranging from 0.12 inches up to 0.25 inches. You should be aware that different types glass have different levels of optical transmittance. Glass is also very affordable to make. It is inexpensive to produce and requires little other than soda ash & sand.
The original glass panel's casing is clear. But, a thin layer has been applied to the photovoltaic film. Coated glass is much cheaper than full solar panels. Another type of glass is low-iron, which allows more light through than conventional glass and is therefore more efficient. You can use the glass as a cover or base.
Inverter
An inverter for solar panels is an important component of any solar power system. These devices convert DC electricity to AC. Modern electrical appliances require this AC power. An inverter is a device that allows you to take advantage of solar energy, and lower your utility bills.
The inverter works by driving an oscillator. The oscillator alters the frequency and voltage. This change is called a sine wave. The closer an output is to a pure sinewave, the better the quality of the inverter. The wave is produced using a combination of inductors as well as capacitors.