Vocabulary
What is a photon?
Particle of light
What happens to electrons at the end?
They return back to their starting point
What are solar cells made from?
Silicon
True or False
Nothing afffects the production level of solar cells
False
Are solar panels non-renewable or renewable energy?
Renewable energy
Definition of semiconductor
A substance that can conduct electricity under certain conditions
What creates the circuit of electricity?
The flow of electrons through wires
What is the function of an inverter?
Converts direct current (DC) into alternating current AC
What are the weather factors that lower production
Clouds & snow
True or False
Most of the materials can be recycled?
True
What does photovoltaic mean?
THe conversion of sunlight into electricity
What is the different between N-type and P-type?
N-type has more electrons (negative) / P-type has less electrons (positive)
What happens to excess energy?
Goes to the public grid
How can solar powered homes be less expensive overtime
Reduces electric & utility bills / low maintenance
How can solar panels become toxic waste?
If not disposed properly
What is the P/N junction?
Interface of the two types of silicon forming a depletion zone that acts like a non-conductive barrier
How are electrons collected
By metal conductive plates / metal fingers
How is the energy stored?
In home batteries, then used in the power generator
How can homeowners earn extra income
Excess power can be bought back
How do the productions level differ from manufacturing solar panels to when the solar panels are in use
Manufacturing produces pollution / Usage produces no pollution
Describe the electric field
A region of space around an object/particle with an electric charge in which force would be exerted on another charge particle
What happens to the electron once the sun hits the cell
It moves towards the N-type side
What causes the release of electrons
A chemical reactions caused by the silicon interacting with the photons
How can the sun position affedct production?
An incorrect orientation from the sun will decrease production
How can solar panels help ecosystems?
Increase in habitat preservation / Is non-threatening to local wildlife