Updated: Dec 9, 2025 | Source: 2024-2028 Question Pool | Topic: E6F
E6F01E6F

What absorbs the energy from light falling on a photovoltaic cell?

Deep Dive: E6F01

The correct answer is C: Electrons. What absorbs the energy from light falling on a photovoltaic cell is electrons. Electrons in the semiconductor absorb photons and create current. For amateur radio operators, this is important for photovoltaic knowledge. Understanding this helps when working with solar cells.

Why Other Answers Are Wrong

Option A (Protons): Incorrect. Protons don't absorb the energy - electrons do. Protons isn't the answer. Option B (Photons): Incorrect. Photons are the light particles, not what absorbs energy - electrons absorb the energy. Photons isn't the answer. Option D (Holes): Incorrect. Holes don't directly absorb the energy - electrons do. Holes isn't the answer.

Exam Tip

Photovoltaic cell energy absorption = electrons. Think 'P'hotovoltaic = 'E'lectrons absorb 'P'hotons. Electrons in the semiconductor absorb photons and create current. Not protons, not photons (the light), not holes - just electrons.

Memory Aid

Photovoltaic cell energy absorption = electrons. Think 'P'hotovoltaic = 'E'lectrons. Electrons in the semiconductor absorb photons and create current. Important for photovoltaic knowledge.

Real-World Example

A photovoltaic cell: Electrons absorb the energy from light falling on it. When photons hit the cell, electrons in the semiconductor material absorb the energy and are excited, creating current. This is what absorbs the energy - electrons.

Source & Coverage

Question Pool: 2024-2028 Question Pool

Subelement: E6F

Reference: 2024-2028 Question Pool · E6 - Circuit Components

Key Concepts

Absorbs energy Light falling on photovoltaic cell Electrons

Verified Content

Question from the official FCC Extra Class pool. Explanation reviewed by licensed amateur radio operators and mapped to the E6F topic.