Chapter 21, Problem 21.101SP

(a)

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: To determine the colour and approximate wavelength of maximum solar intensity at the earth’s surface and between $\text{CdTe}$ and $\text{ZnSe}$ with band gap energy of 145 kJ/mol and 248 kJ/mol respectively which semiconductor absorbs at a wavelength matched with maximum solar intensity.

Concept introduction:

A photovoltaic cell is a semiconductor diode which converts visible light into direct current. Some photovoltaic cell also converts infrared or ultraviolet radiation into DC current. Photovoltaic cells are an essential part of solar-electric energy systems, which are becoming progressively important as alternative sources of utility power.

Given:

  $\text{CdTe}$ band gap energy is 145 kJ/mol,

  $\text{ZnSe}$ band gap energy is 248 kJ/mol.

To determine:

The colour and approximate wavelength of maximum solar intensity at the earth’s surface.

(b)

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: To determine the colour and approximate wavelength of maximum solar intensity at the earth’s surface and between $\text{CdTe}$ and $\text{ZnSe}$ with band gap energy of 145 kJ/mol and 248 kJ/mol respectively which semiconductor absorbs at a wavelength matched with maximum solar intensity.

Concept introduction:

A photovoltaic cell is a semiconductor diode which converts visible light into direct current. Some photovoltaic cell also converts infrared or ultraviolet radiation into DC current. Photovoltaic cells are an essential part of solar-electric energy systems, which are becoming progressively important as alternative sources of utility power.

Given:

  $\text{CdTe}$ band gap energy is 145 kJ/mol,

  $\text{ZnSe}$ band gap energy is 248 kJ/mol.

To determine:

The semiconductors among the given should be selected which absorbs wavelength matched with maximum solar intensity.