Systems Thinking—Inside a Solar Cell

Underlying advanced technology is a basic understanding of systems. Systems are collections of parts that function together to create a working mechanism. By being able to conceptualize how independent parts work together to make up a whole system, a technician can get right to work diagnosing problems, making repairs, and even recommending improvements.

In this interactive activity, take a look inside a solar cell to learn how this kind of electrical system functions as an assembly of its component parts and as part of the larger electromagnetic system. Solar cells—also called photovoltaic cells—have a variety of applications, from personal electronic devices (such as calculators, cell phone chargers, and bicycle lights) to utility-scale electricity generation at power plants and consumer-scale electricity generation in homes.

Click on the left to explore the interactive activity (requires Flash plug-in).