The Basics on How Solar Panels Work
Solar panels have been around for quite a while, now, but most people still do not understand exactly how they work. A simple explanation would be to say that solar panels collect the radiation from the sun and convert it into electricity. Each panel has several solar cells and uses the elemental reaction between negatively and positively charged compounds to generate power. Silicon is one of the main ingredients, because of it is naturally electromagnetically neutral. This allows it to take the charge from another element, making it perfect to use as a base for collecting solar energy.
Electricity is generated when electrons move from negative to positive charges. Each solar panel has two plates joined by wiring. One plate is positively charged and the other is negatively charged. When exposed to sun light the elements in the two plates react. When the electrons of the top plate become stimulated and start moving, they bump each other. The loose electrons travel through the conductive wiring to the bottom plate. The transfer of these electrons is responsible for the creation of energy we can use in our homes and businesses.
The new energy can either be used immediately, or briefly stored in a chemical battery. Energy will continue to be created as long as the negatively charged plate has access to sunlight. How much energy is created is directly related to how large or small the plates are in size. This is the reason you seldom see a single panel in operation. Most homes and businesses will install a bank of panels, depending on space, cost and energy needs. Now, if you are ever asked, “How do solar panels work?”, you will be able to explain this concept with ease.