There are other ways that the Sun’s energy is used to make electricity. Have a look at this calculator. At the top, above the numbers, there is a row of solar cells. They use energy directly from the Sun to make the calculator work.
These solar cells turn sunlight into electricity.
The proper name for solar cells is photovoltaic cells, or PV cells for short. Photo means to do with light and voltaic means to do with electricity. Just one PV cell can power a calculator or wristwatch.
Solar panels are made up of solar cells.
A group of connected solar cells is called a solar panel. Between 10 and 20 solar panels grouped together are called a solar array. Solar panels or arrays work best when they face the sunlight.
Solar cells are made from a type of melted sand called silicon.
When sunlight shines on a solar cell, the Sun’s energy makes tiny particles called electrons jump around. When the electrons jump from one layer of silicon to another in the solar cell, electricity is created. The electricity can power a lamp or machine.