| a photovoltaic cell that converts sunlight directly into electricity. |
| solar cell n. A semiconductor device that converts the energy of sunlight into electric energy. Also called photovoltaic cell. |
solar cell
(click for larger image in new window) A photoelectric cell designed to convert sunlight into electrical energy, typically consisting of layers or sheets of specially prepared silicon. Electrons, displaced through the photoelectric effect by the Sun's radiant energy in one layer, flow across a junction to the other layer, creating a voltage across the layers that can provide power to an external circuit. Solar cells are used as power supplies in calculators, satellites, and other devices, and as a primary source of electricity in remote locations. |