Homework: How do solar panels work?

Most solar panels are made of

What is a semiconductor? Look up a definition that you understand and add it here.

Silicon is...

Silicon is sandwiched and squeezed between conductive layers. How does this increase the thermal energy transfer occurring?

Daniel - because this decreases the thickness of silicon, thus increasing thermal energy transfer.

Alianna - because this increases the surface area of silicon, thus increasing thermal energy transfer.

Jeremey - because this decreases the surface area of silicon, thus increasing thermal energy transfer.

ExVic - because this decreases the thickness of silicon, thus increasing thermal energy transfer.

Answer by choosing the student you agree with and then explaining.

Electrons can "wander" across the P/N junction. Draw what that looks like in your own way.

Photons knock electrons from their

Why can solar cells be used for decades?

One of the issues in preventing solar energy from being used is that solar energy is not spread across evenly throughout the planet.

Explain what that means and how that can be an issue. What places do you think would have the hardest time acquiring solar energy?

Solar energy is less consistent because solar energy is less available on...

What are some issues that may present itself with the solar panel's themselves?

1.

2.

The most efficient solar cell can only convert about ______ of available sunlight into electricity.

What two things do we need to provide enough solar energy to run the whole world?

Where is an available electrical grid the least abundant?

After watching the video, in what places would you put solar energy panels?

*Look up some regions in the world if you are not sure.