How does a solar cell work?

The major part of all solar cells is made of silicone, which is a semi-conductor. Semi-conductors are substances that conduct electricity only under the action of light or heat. When light particles fall on a solar cell, they bounce off electrons from the silicone layer. These electrons wander to the opposite layer, when an electrical field is applied. The upper and the lower sides of the cell thereby get electrically charged and generate an electrical voltage. This is tapped via electrode and produces – similar to a battery – direct current. This current can be used directly or fed directly to the electricity grid after being converted into alternating current.