Finding Total Current

Source: YouTube

Finding the Total Current in a Solar Cell

To determine the total current in a solar cell, we need to consider various factors such as the current at depletion region edges, the distance variable difference between different regions, and the steady-state conditions of the cell.

Constant Total Current

The total current in a solar cell remains constant across the device as long as there are no contacts that can inject or extract carriers, and the cell is operating under steady-state conditions. This concept is based on the continuity equation, which states that the total number of electrons and holes in the semiconductor remains constant in steady state, leading to a constant total current.

Calculating Total Current

By accounting for the differences in the distance variable x between different regions of the device and considering the currents at the depletion region edges, we can calculate the total current. The distance variables x’ and x are defined for different regions, and the transport equations are adjusted accordingly to find the total current.

Current Across the Depletion Region

Across the depletion region where generation and recombination can be neglected, the change in current is minimal. By considering the change in current across the depletion region for both electron and hole currents, we can obtain a more accurate total current calculation. The continuity equations help in determining the current dependence on recombination and generation in the depletion region.

Overall, the process of finding the total current in a solar cell involves accounting for different variables, understanding the behavior of carriers across regions, and applying the continuity equation to ensure a constant total current throughout the device.

Source: YouTube

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