PV Gap

Tracy Said:

How Much Current is produced by a SINGLE SOLAR CELL AT STANDARD?

We Answered:

It is different for each type of cell...

Here is one:

This calibrated silicon solar cell is perfect for PV system installers, to test instruments or in the classroom. The factory has tested this 0.5volt, 2 x 4 cm cell in 1 sun conditions and written the output on the rear of the #2 size plastic case (2 1/4" x 1 3/8" for reference).Since a silicon cell is used, the current output is almost linear to the amount of light. Example: 1 sun = 250ma / 50% sun = 125ma.

http://www.spheralsolar.com/products/Cal…

Wanda Said:

Do solar cells lower ambient temperature b/c they are absorbing light rays or raise it b/c of the reaction?

We Answered:

It depends on what the solar cells are replacing.

Let's say the original surface was a pool of water or a mirrored surface, which reflected all the light back into space. Now a big solar cell, even though it converts most of its energy into electricity, is still a very dark object, and will absorb some of the light as heat and reradiate it out that way.

If however, the surface was black tar, asphalt, or very dark roofing tile, then the solar cell would be converting more of the light energy into electricity than just turning it into heat.

This will also depend on the quality of the solar cell you're using, since commercial grades can range from 40%-90% conversion efficiency.
But either way, it isn't that big of a difference.

Pamela Said:

i am doing an experiment on how different temperatures affect the voltage, current and wattage of a solar cell

We Answered:

The control apparatus should be constructed in exactly the same way as you construct the test apparatus, with the exception, of course, that it does NOT get put into either the oven or the freezer, like you would put your test apparatus.

In other words, make either two or three identical sets of apparati, so that you have one whose temperature does not change significantly (room temperature, or inside an insulated case, or something), and conduct the first test with all of your apparati in the same environment, then conduct a second test with the test apparatus (apparati) in their altered-temperature environments, and then, conduct the third test with all of your apparatus back in the original environment.

Marlene Said:

why the output of the solar cell will decrease as the temperature in?

We Answered:

Thermal agitation of the carriers will knock them out of the upper energy level without generating useful power.