The solar cell as a diode

Principle

The pupils should become familiar with the behavior of a solar cell which is not being illuminated. In doing this, a DC voltage is applied to the the cell and it is ascertained whether a current is flowing, with the aid of a light bulb. Then the polarity of the voltage is reversed.

Benefits

• Experiment is part of a complete solution set with a total of 26 experiments for Renewable Energy solar cells, wind power, water power
• Safe experimentation: the lamp is protected against touch, the housing is well ventilated with the aid of holes and is only slightly heated
• Doubled learning success: Electric circuit diagram on top, real components can be seen at the bottom

Tasks

How does a cell which is not illuminated behave within a DC circuit?

Place the solar cell, with the white side (platen) looking up, on the table and observe what happens with each of the possible polarities of the DC circuit.