
How do Solar Panels work?
I wanted to know exactly how solar panels generate electricity using the sun? Is it possible to make a mini Solar Panel?
If it is possible to make a mini solar panel, how would I do this? what material’s/tool’s would I need?…etc
That is a question involving the atomic make up of the material used in panels. “I wanted to know exactly how solar panels generate electricity using the sun? ”
To put it in the simplest terms. Solar panels create electron movement (electricity) when a photon (particle or wave of light) strikes an atom in the panel. Because of the material’s atomic make up, each atom is able to absorb the energy from photon, loosing an electron in trade. Any atom that is struck, absorbs that photon’s energy and that extra energy knocks a electron out of it’s orbit, disassociating it from it’s atom. As sunlight showers on the surface of a panel you now have two things. First you have a bunch of atoms that have extra energy and are missing one electron each giving them a positive charge. Second you have a bunch of free electrons that are negatively charged. The difference between them is called electric potential. Provide a pathway between these two regions and you get electron flow, which is called electricity. SS
“Is it possible to make a mini solar panel?”
As in small? Yes and they do but remember it’s the amount of combined energy from individual photons that determines the amount of electricity. As you have more surface area you are able to collect more photons, giving more electricity. SS
How Photovoltaic Solar Cells Work
|
|
Moonrays 97125 Rechargeable NiCd AA Batteries for Solar Powered Units, 4 Pack $4.99 Pack of 4 “AA” rechargeable NiCd replacement batteries. For use in all solar fixtures…. |
|
|
Kikkerland Solar-Powered Rainbow Maker $18.95 Fill your room with rainbows using the sun s energy. This solar-powered device attaches to windows with a suction cup. The energy panel causes the genuine Swarovski crystal to rotate and refract sunlight and create rainbows. Great for anyone who enjoys bringing the outdoors indoors and it is known to have keep infants and house pets intertained!… |