Photovoltaics-Condensed Matter or Optics?

In summary, photovoltaics-condensed matter and photovoltaics-optics are two branches of photovoltaics that focus on different aspects of solar energy technology. While the former focuses on materials and physical properties, the latter focuses on light manipulation. Photovoltaic cells work by converting sunlight into electricity through the photovoltaic effect and commonly used materials include silicon, cadmium telluride, and copper indium gallium selenide. The efficiency of photovoltaic devices varies but research in this field is constantly improving solar energy technology, making it more efficient, durable, and cost-effective.
  • #1
OrangeEater
3
0
Hi guys, I'm a rising Junior in physics. I would really like to pursue an applied physics PhD
program to study photovoltaics, likely something to do with nano-photonics. My problem now is that I'm
a research assistant in a condensed matter experiment lab, focusing heavily on spectroscopy.
Will not having research experience in optics in particular hurt my application? Would it even be worth it to switch labs now? I've been working with them for the bette rpart of a year.
Thanks guys!
 
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  • #2
OrangeEater said:
Will not having research experience in optics in particular hurt my application?
No.
 

1. What is the difference between photovoltaics and condensed matter?

Photovoltaics is a branch of science that focuses on the conversion of light energy into electricity, while condensed matter is a field of physics that studies the properties of solid materials. Photovoltaics-Condensed Matter combines these two fields to study the properties of materials used in solar cells and their efficiency in converting light into electricity.

2. How does photovoltaics-Condensed Matter relate to optics?

Optics is the study of the behavior and properties of light. In photovoltaics-Condensed Matter, optics is used to understand how light interacts with the materials used in solar cells. This helps scientists design and optimize solar cells for maximum efficiency.

3. What are the main challenges in photovoltaics-Condensed Matter research?

The main challenges in this field include finding materials with high efficiency in converting light into electricity, improving the durability and stability of solar cells, and reducing the cost of production. Additionally, understanding and controlling the behavior of electrons and photons in these materials is a complex and ongoing research area.

4. How are advancements in photovoltaics-Condensed Matter impacting the solar energy industry?

Advancements in photovoltaics-Condensed Matter research have led to the development of more efficient and cost-effective solar cells, making solar energy a more viable and competitive source of renewable energy. This has also contributed to the growth of the solar energy industry and its potential to meet the world's energy demands in a sustainable way.

5. What are some potential future developments in photovoltaics-Condensed Matter research?

Some potential future developments in this field include the use of new materials, such as perovskites, in solar cells, the integration of solar cells into everyday objects, and the development of more efficient and cost-effective manufacturing processes. Additionally, research is ongoing in the area of solar cell recycling and the use of solar energy for energy storage.

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