Question

Material used for solar cell is:

• A. Germanium
• B. Silicon
• C. Silica gel
• D. Mercury

Hint:

Silicon (Si) is the primary material used in solar cells due to its high efficiency, abundance, and excellent semiconductor properties.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding Solar Cell Materials A solar cell (photovoltaic cell) converts sunlight into electricity through the photovoltaic effect. The efficiency and performance of solar cells depend on the material used. 
Step 2: Why Silicon? - Silicon (Si) is the most commonly used material in solar cells due to:
- Abundance: Readily available and cost-effective.
- Semiconductor Properties: Ideal for electron flow under sunlight.
- High Efficiency: Monocrystalline and polycrystalline silicon provide high energy conversion rates. 
Step 3: Evaluating options: 
- (A) Incorrect: Germanium is a semiconductor but less efficient than silicon in solar applications.
- (B) Correct: Silicon is the standard material for solar cells.
- (C) Incorrect: Silica gel is used for moisture absorption, not in photovoltaic cells.
- (D) Incorrect: Mercury is not used in solar cell fabrication.