PHOTOSYNTHESIS

Photosynthesis and Semi-Conductor Based Solar Cells

Photosynthesis and Semi-Conductor Based Solar Cells

Introduction

Photosynthesis is a process used by plants to trap solar energy making it the most efficient and reliable power supply. For years scientists have been researching and experimenting to develop an artificial process to produce and retain solar energy. They have developed semi-conductor based solar cells for this purpose. The time of the year when production of solar energy is greatest is summer. This paper aims to discuss the comparison between the processes of energy production in photosynthesis and semi-conductor based solar cells. The paper will also contrast the two processes and relate both to the laws of thermodynamics.

Discussion

Similarities

There exist many similarities between photosynthesis and semi-conductor based solar cells. Plant cells use sunlight in order to split water molecules. This process releases energy and plants do this through direct contact with the sun. On the other hand, solar cells achieve this by utilizing sunlight through photovoltaic (PV) panels (APD, 2011). The semiconducting materials, like silicon, in the cells absorb the sunlight just as chlorophyll harvests sunlight in plants. Both processes are of immense value as they provide useful outputs. The photosynthesis process produces oxygen and allows plants to produce food through absorption of sunlight. Plants incorporate carbon dioxide and energy from the sun to convert water molecules into hydrogen, electrons, and oxygen during photosynthesis. This process also produces petroleum, natural gas and coal. The solar based cells are inspired by the process of photosynthesis in which a similar light reaction occurs to create electricity. Light is captured by the electrons in the solar cell and then transformed into a high energy level. From there, the energy transfers by way of the wire to run the semi-conductor motor. Electrons are lost in both these processes, which makes them so similar. After the ...