High School

What occurs when light strikes a solar panel?

A. The solar panel emits light
B. The solar panel absorbs light and converts it into electricity
C. The solar panel reflects light back into the environment
D. The solar panel generates heat

Answer :

Final answer:

A solar panel absorbs light and converts it into electricity through the absorption of photons which excites the electrons causing them to move and generate an electric current.

Explanation:

When light strikes a solar panel, it doesn't reflect back into the environment, generate heat, or emit light. In fact, what happens is that the solar panel absorbs the light and converts it into electricity. The process involves the absorption of photons, which excites the electrons and causes them to move, creating an electric current. Hence, the correct option is B) The solar panel absorbs light and converts it into electricity.

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When light strikes a solar panel B) The solar panel absorbs light and converts it into electricity.

When light strikes a solar panel, the main process that occurs is known as the photoelectric effect. This process allows solar panels to convert light energy into electrical energy.

  1. Absorption of Light: When photons, which are particles of light, hit the solar panel, they are absorbed by the semiconductor material within the panel. This material typically contains silicon, which has properties that allow it to relate to light absorption.

  2. Formation of Electron-Hole Pairs: The energy from the absorbed photons excites electrons in the silicon, knocking them loose and creating what are called electron-hole pairs. An electron-hole pair essentially consists of a free electron (which can carry an electric current) and a corresponding hole (where the electron used to be).

  3. Generation of Electric Current: The structure of the solar cell creates an electric field that drives these free electrons towards one side of the panel and the holes towards the opposite side. This movement creates a flow of electric current as the electrons are collected.

  4. Electricity Production: The generated electric current can be harnessed to power electrical devices or be stored in batteries for later use.