Chemistry
The Chemistry Behind Photovoltaics and Solar Cells
Quick fact
In a typical silicon solar cell, a single photon can kick an electron across the band gap, but the electron must then be 'stolen' from its hole before it falls back—a process that relies on chemical doping.
Why this is interesting
You see solar panels everywhere, but have you ever wondered how a solid slab of material can turn invisible sunlight into a usable electric current? The answer lies hidden in the chemistry of electrons and their energy levels.