Experiment 1 - The Solar Cell

When light falls on a solar cell, you measure a voltage at the positive and negative terminals of the cell. The photovoltaic effect has converted light into an electrical voltage.

Build the circuit as shown...

Circuit diagram voltage of a solar cell.

Circuit voltage of a solar cell. (Enlarge)

Once you let light shine onto the solar cell, your multimeter shows a voltage...

• In direct sunlight you measure a voltage close to the nominal voltage,
• in artificial light you measure a voltage well below the nominal voltage and
• if you cover the solar cell, you measure a voltage close to 0 Volt.

Not only a voltage is generated, it can also generate a current and performs work...