Can the efficiency of a solar cell with a single band gap reach 100%?

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SUMMARY

The efficiency of a solar cell with a single band gap cannot reach 100% due to the limitations imposed by the photoelectric effect. The energy of incoming photons must match the band-gap energy for electron excitation, and a single band gap restricts the range of photon energies that can be effectively converted into electricity. The solar spectrum is broad, encompassing a wide range of wavelengths, which means that a single band gap cannot capture all available energy efficiently. Therefore, while advancements in solar technology can improve efficiency, the theoretical maximum for single band gap solar cells remains below 100%.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of the photoelectric effect
  • Knowledge of solar cell technology
  • Familiarity with band gap energy concepts
  • Basic principles of the solar spectrum
NEXT STEPS
  • Research multi-junction solar cells and their efficiency advantages
  • Explore the concept of photon recycling in solar energy conversion
  • Study the impact of different materials on band gap energy
  • Learn about the solar spectrum and its implications for solar cell design
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Students preparing for exams in physics or renewable energy, researchers in solar technology, and professionals interested in the efficiency of solar cells.

yecko
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Homework Statement
Can the efficiency of a solar cell with a single band gap reach 100%?
Relevant Equations
hf>Wg (band gap energy)
I have tried looking up online with the photoelectric effect, it just mentioned the energy of the photon must have to equal to band-gap energy.
Yet, it didn't mention if 100% can be reached in that case, or if a single bandgap makes any effect??

https://courses.lumenlearning.com/physics/chapter/29-2-the-photoelectric-effect/
https://www.e-education.psu.edu/eme812/node/534

I will have exam tomorrow, and I would like to clarify with the concept. Thank you very much.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
What does the solar spectrum look like? Is it very narrow, and centered near the band gap wavelength? Or is it very broad...?
 

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