What is a solar cell?
Asked on: Sep 13, 2023 05:47 PMImagine a magical cookie that, instead of giving you a tummy ache when you eat too many, it gives you power when the sun shines on it. That's kind of like what a solar cell does! A solar cell is a special type of device that can turn sunlight into electricity. It's like a little power plant that doesn't need any coal or gas, just lots of bright sunshine.
Now, how does this magic happen? Well, solar cells are made from materials called semiconductors, usually silicon (which is found in sand!). When the sunlight hits the solar cell, it gives energy to tiny particles in the silicon. These energized particles then move around and create an electric current. And voila! We have electricity!
So next time when you're out in the sun, remember there's enough energy there not just for your fun day out but also to power up things around you. Isn't that cool? Just don't try to eat the solar cells like cookies though - they don't taste very good!
Learn more about solar energy here And here's how solar cells work