Sample interview questions: Can you explain the concept of photovoltaics and its connection to optics?
Sample answer:
Photovoltaics is a branch of physics that deals with the generation of electrical energy from light. It involves the use of materials known as semiconductors, which have unique properties that allow them to convert light energy into electrical energy through a process called the photovoltaic effect.
The photovoltaic effect relies on the principles of optics to harness the energy from light. When light interacts with a semiconductor material, it can be absorbed by the atoms or molecules within the material, leading to the excitation of electrons. This excitation causes the electrons to move from their original positions, creating an electric current.
Optics plays a crucial role in photovoltaics because it governs how light interacts with the semiconductor material. The behavior of light, such as its absorption, reflection, and transmission, is determined by the properties of the material it encounters. In the case of photovoltaics, the choice of semiconductor material is critical as it should have the ability to efficiently absorb light and generate a significant amount of electric current.
One important optical property in photovoltaics is the absorption coefficient, which represents the likelihood of light being absorbed by the material. Materials with high absorption coefficients are desirable as they can absorb a larger fraction of incident light, maximizing the energy conversion efficiency.
Another optical consideration is the bandgap energy of the semiconductor material. The bandgap … Read full answer