Spectral Sensitivity and Solar Energy

  • #1

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I'm trying to understand the link between Spectral Sensitivity and Solar Energy.

To give some context, I've been learning about external quantum efficiency and spectral response.

I found a lot of literature about spectral sensitivity, with one saying the units of it were Ampres / lux.
Is spectral sensitivity a measure of the amount of current generated by the solar cell per lumen/m2?

How come it is not Ampres / radiant flux or intensity? A bit of a photometry/radiometry question I guess...
 
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  • #2
Spectral sensitivity is a measure of the amount of current generated by a solar cell when exposed to a certain wavelength or range of wavelengths. As such, it is usually expressed in terms of amperes (A) per lumen/m2 (lux). The lux is a measure of the light intensity, so it makes sense that this would be the unit to measure the solar cell's sensitivity to light. Radiant flux or intensity (measured in Watts/m2) is not as useful for measuring the solar cell's sensitivity as it does not account for the differences in the intensity of different wavelengths of light.
 

1. What is spectral sensitivity?

Spectral sensitivity is the ability of an organism or a device to detect and respond to different wavelengths of light within the electromagnetic spectrum. It is an important concept in the study of how living organisms and technology interact with solar energy.

2. How does spectral sensitivity affect solar energy capture?

The spectral sensitivity of an organism or device determines which wavelengths of light are most readily absorbed and utilized for energy production. For example, plants have a high sensitivity to red and blue light, which are the wavelengths most efficiently used for photosynthesis. Solar panels, on the other hand, have a high sensitivity to the entire visible light spectrum, as well as some infrared and ultraviolet wavelengths. This allows them to capture a wider range of solar energy.

3. Can spectral sensitivity be measured?

Yes, spectral sensitivity can be measured using specialized instruments such as spectrophotometers or spectroradiometers. These devices measure the intensity of light across different wavelengths, allowing scientists to determine the sensitivity of an organism or technology to specific parts of the electromagnetic spectrum.

4. How does the Earth's atmosphere affect spectral sensitivity?

The Earth's atmosphere filters and absorbs certain wavelengths of light, which can affect the spectral sensitivity of living organisms and technology. For example, the ozone layer absorbs harmful ultraviolet light, protecting organisms from its damaging effects. However, this also means that less ultraviolet light is available for photosynthesis and solar energy capture.

5. What factors can influence spectral sensitivity?

There are many factors that can influence spectral sensitivity, including genetic makeup, environmental conditions, and evolutionary history. For example, some organisms have evolved to have a high sensitivity to certain wavelengths of light that are abundant in their environment, while others may have a wider range of sensitivity due to a need to adapt to varying conditions. Technological advances can also influence the spectral sensitivity of solar energy capture devices, allowing them to be more efficient and versatile.

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