The Relationship Between Solar Energy and Semiconductors

Solar energy is radiant heat and light from the Sun attached together using a wide variety of
ever-evolving technologies such as photovoltaics, solar heating, solar thermal energy, artificial
photosynthesis and solar architecture. Every technology has a basis, and that basis serves as the
foundation that makes it all feasible. In the case of solar power, it is the semiconductor. These
magnificent, silicon-based elements are spread across the roofs throughout the world.
But what is the relationship of solar energy and semiconductor? Sounds technical, but the
concept is just simple. There are two things you should know about semiconductors. The first
one is the fact that semiconductor is not exclusive to solar. In fact, it is very beneficial in the
field of electronics. Thats why there is a shortage of silicon. The second one is the fact that
semiconductor itself is very common in the world of technology. Other materials, such as
copper indium diselenide and cadmium telluride, are also used, but only lesser efficiencies.
Basically, a semiconductor is a device in a solar cell that absorbs sunlight and enables the
division of electrons from heat waves. They can be used to generate electrical currents when
electrons are freed. Hence, you always have the importance of semiconductors in the
manufacturing of solar cell. A semiconductor has 2 traits, which are very important to the
production of electricity:

Absorption Coefficient. Technically speaking, this concept is a measure as to how far

the light can go through a material before being absorbed. This varies based on the kind
of material and the light wavelength being absorbed. In solar cells, semiconductors have
a rapid absorption, so the sunlight can be readily absorbed.
The Bandgap. Baaically, this represents the least amount of energy required to free an
electron. A semiconductor material has 2 bands. The first one is the valence band,
where there is a low energy level. The second one is the conduction band, where there
is a higher energy level and electrons are freed and can move freely.

The semiconductor is the most important part of the solar cell, especially when talking about
the science behind the work. It may be a bit confusing to you, but it is normal. Not all people
can appreciate the world of semiconductor technicalities, but all people can identify its
applications and uses. While the physical science may be tough to understand, the works of
semiconductors are fairly simple. Just understand that when the light wave is being absorbed
by the semiconductor at a certain depth, it will have the capacity to free the energetic electrons
from atomic bonds within a semiconductor material or silicon. Basically, the electrons bound in
the valence band are energized and released into the conduction band where they produce
electricity.
Throughout the years, scientists are searching for the best ways to create solar cells that are
smaller, competitive in price, and more flexible. The price must be reasonable enough as to per
watt as to electricity. When talking about the global function, the importance of

semiconductors and solar energy will be based on searching for the latest materials that can
produce sound solar cells economically and act as semiconductors.