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Examoogle • User • info@examoogle.com • EE-2024-8821
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Photovoltaic energy is the conversion of sunlight into
Chemical energy
Biogas
Electricity
Geothermal energy
Chemical energy
Quick Summary: Photovoltaic (PV) energy conversion refers to the direct transformation of solar radiation into electrical energy using semiconducting materials. The provided question contains a factual error in the identified 'Correct Answer'; sunlight is converted into electrical energy, not chemical energy.
Photovoltaic (PV) energy conversion refers to the direct transformation of solar radiation into electrical energy using semiconducting materials. The provided question contains a factual error in the identified 'Correct Answer'; sunlight is converted into electrical energy, not chemical energy.
E=hν=λhc — Energy of a photon based on its frequency or wavelength
P=IV — Power generated by the photovoltaic cell
When photons with energy greater than the bandgap of a semiconductor (typically silicon) strike the solar cell, they excite electrons from the valence band to the conduction band. This creates electron-hole pairs, and the internal electric field of the p-n junction sweeps these charges to separate contacts, generating a direct current (DC) flow.
The photovoltaic effect is a physical and chemical phenomenon.
Silicon is the most commonly used semiconductor material for PV cells.
The output of a solar cell is inherently Direct Current (DC).
An inverter is required to convert the output into Alternating Current (AC) for standard utility grids.
Renewable and sustainable energy source
Low maintenance and silent operation
Intermittent energy availability (daylight only)
Requires significant land area for large-scale utility projects
Residential rooftop solar power systems
Spacecraft and satellite power supplies
The original answer provided (Chemical energy) is incorrect. Chemical energy is the output of photosynthesis or batteries, whereas Photovoltaic conversion is explicitly electrical.
Option B (Biogas) relates to biochemical conversion of organic waste.
Option D (Geothermal) relates to heat stored beneath the Earth's crust.
C is correct — Photovoltaic energy conversion is the process of generating electricity directly from sunlight.
Always distinguish between 'Photovoltaic' (light to electricity) and 'Solar Thermal' (light to heat to electricity) systems.