What device captures light from the sun and converts it into electrical power?

What device captures light from the sun and converts it into electrical power?

• A. Wind turbine
• B. Battery
• C. Photovoltaic cell
• D. Electric generator

Answer: (C)

The device uses the photovoltaic effect in a semiconductor to turn light directly into electricity. When sunlight hits a photovoltaic cell (usually made of silicon), photons excite electrons and create charge carriers. The internal electric field at the junction separates these charges, producing an electric current with no moving parts. That's why many cells are combined into panels to supply more power. This direct conversion sets it apart from a wind turbine (which needs wind), a battery (which stores energy chemically), or a generator (which converts mechanical energy to electricity).

The device uses the photovoltaic effect in a semiconductor to turn light directly into electricity. When sunlight hits a photovoltaic cell (usually made of silicon), photons excite electrons and create charge carriers. The internal electric field at the junction separates these charges, producing an electric current with no moving parts. That's why many cells are combined into panels to supply more power. This direct conversion sets it apart from a wind turbine (which needs wind), a battery (which stores energy chemically), or a generator (which converts mechanical energy to electricity).