PV Gap

Tina Said:

What type of alternative energy source do photovoltaic cells require?

We Answered:

Both of the above. Oddly enough photovoltaic cells (solar cells) while being called "alternative energy devices" are actually using one of the earliest energy sources known to humanity. Solar energy (sunlight ) has warmed the skin of people since there were people. The actual source being the sun which undergoes nuclear reactions and pours it's energy out upon the entire solar system. Very unlikely we would survive without it.

This is the case of many "alternative sciences", which have been around for a long, long time. Wind energy has been around a long time as well and has been used by humanity since the first sailing vessels plied the seas. Wind energy is also partly a result of solar energy warming the sun facing side of the Earth; creating weather changes and wind.

So alternative sciences are not necessarily new sciences, many predate the use of fire! Ironic in that the wheel is not considered an alternative transportation device, go figure.

Perhaps one of the oddest sources to power a solar cell that I've ever seen was a coleman lantern that was used at night very close to the cell in order to produce enough energy to power a small TV. People will do anything to not miss their favorite show! This bit of information might help someone in an emergency situation so felt I'd include it as a bit of trivia concerning photovoltaic cell sources.

Vincent Said:

Solar Cells create A/C Current?

We Answered:

No, DC only. If you need AC, an inverter is required. If your power needs are low, no problem but if you need a lot of power, this will be not very efficient. This system can be purchased from an RV supply. Many RV's have these installed at the factory.

Greg Said:

Which kind of 'p' type & 'n' type semiconductors used in Photovoltaic cell?

We Answered:

Silicon is mainly used as base material. It capacity is measured in terms of power