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Harness of Solar Energy
Harnessing of Solar Energy
Relation of photosynthesis and the semi-conductor-based solar cell
Harnessing of Solar Energy
Both photosynthesis and the semi-conductor solar cells are important in regards to the human lifestyle. Photosynthesis helps in the manufacture of carbohydrates that are used for food by humans. Semi-conductor-based solar cells provide energy in the form of electricity that is also consumed by humans.
Photosynthesis
Photosynthesis in its broader definition is a process that entails the change of light into cellular energy of any kind. The photosynthetic process involves different stages, among them; energy is absorbed using antenna complexes, undergoing of photochemical reactions and conversions into chemical energy. Not only green plants involve photosynthesis for the energy to grow (trees, scrubs, water lilies among others) but also some algae and bacteria (Burghardt, May & Micha, 2009, pg 4).
Semi-conductor-based solar cell
A solar cell, which can also be referred to as a photovoltaic (PV), is any device, that is designed to convert sunlight into electric forces. A semi-conductor-based solar cell is, therefore, an appliance with a semi-conductor diode that works on a mechanism of internal electric fields. Two semi-conductors, the p-type and the n-type that are positively and also negatively...
The energy is later used by humans inform of electricity. Many people around the globe are taking advantage of this technological mechanism that portrays efficiency and is user friendly (Cau & Brinker, 2008, pg 594).
Comparison
There is an element of sunlight involved in the processes of both cells. Light, in plant cells, helps convert water and carbon dioxide to carbohydrates. In regards to solar cells, light is converted to electricity by use of positive terminal and the negative charged semi-conductors. Similarly, both cells, there are processes resulting to the conversions from one state to another. Solar energy converts light to electric energy and plant cells convert water and carbon dioxide to energy in the form of carbohydrates. There is also a common aspect of energy storage in both plant cells and solar cells. Solar cells store the energy in storage facilities like DC batteries. Plant cells store their energy in the stems, roots and even leaves.
Contrasts
The harnessing on solar energy by both methodologies is faced with various contrasts in the incorporation of the two said processes. Whereas the solar cell has to have an electric load for instance DC batteries or AC equipments, the plant cell stores its energy in the cell in the form of carbohydrates; that…
References
Burhardt, I May, V. & Micha, A. V (2009) Energy Transfer Dynamics in Biomaterial Systems: New York, Springer publishers
Cau, G. & Brinker, C. J (2008) Annual Review of Nano Research: New York, World Scientific
Holzner, S (2011) Physics 1 for Dummies: New York, John Wiley and Sons
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