Why do monocrystalline solar cells have rounded/cropped edges?

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Monocrystalline solar cells have rounded or cropped edges primarily due to the manufacturing process, which involves cutting from a cylindrical boule. Historically, circular solar cells were used, but square shapes are now preferred because they pack more efficiently in solar panels. The rectangular shape of individual cells allows for better space utilization and reduces wasted area. Additionally, the outer regions of the boule tend to form polycrystalline structures, making monocrystalline cells more desirable for their efficiency. The evolution in design reflects both practical and performance considerations in solar technology.
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Homework Statement
Why do monocrystalline solar cells have rounded/cropped edges? And why do solar cells need to be square-shaped in general?
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There were circular solar cells 30 years ago. Why do we have square-shaped solar cells now? Why square now?
 
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Rectangles pack better than circles. Seems that individual cells also assume a rectangular shape. .
mono-and-poly-silicon-cells.jpg
 
Way I understand it, the outside of the boule tends towards polycrystalline formation (mono is preferable).
 
Thread 'Correct statement about size of wire to produce larger extension'

Thread 'Correct statement about size of wire to produce larger extension'

The answer is (B) but I don't really understand why. Based on formula of Young Modulus: $$x=\frac{FL}{AE}$$ The second wire made of the same material so it means they have same Young Modulus. Larger extension means larger value of ##x## so to get larger value of ##x## we can increase ##F## and ##L## and decrease ##A## I am not sure whether there is change in ##F## for first and second wire so I will just assume ##F## does not change. It leaves (B) and (C) as possible options so why is (C)...
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