Question

The curve represents the I-V characteristics of which optoelectronic device?

A. Solar cell
B. Photodiode
C. Light emitting diode (LED)
D. None of these

Answer 1

Hint: We know that the variation of current with increasing voltage when plotted on a graph will give us the I-V characteristic of an electronic device. You could recall the I-V characteristics of the electronic devices given in the option. On comparison with the given characteristic, you will get the answer.

Complete step by step solution:
In the question, we are given the I-V characteristics of an optoelectronic device. We are supposed to identify the device from the given options.
The given I-V characteristics is that of a solar cell. Let us understand what a solar cell really is and also its working principle.
It is simply an electrical device that works based on photovoltaic effect that is the conversion of light energy to electrical energy. You may be familiar with the solar panels that are formed by stacking these individual solar cells.
When we plot an I-V characteristic curve for a solar cell, it is found to range from short circuit current $I_{SC}$ to open circuit voltage$V_{OC}$.
Let us understand the above two terms. Open circuit voltage is the point at which the current becomes and also the voltage across the cell when the solar cell is open circuited. When a solar cell is short circuited, voltage is zero and current will have maximum value.
Therefore, option A is the correct answer.

Note: Some of the advantages of solar cells are: it is pollution free, long lasting with very low maintenance cost. High cost of installation and low efficiency are some disadvantages. Also, we get no solar energy at night and also on cloudy days. Silicon is the material used in traditional solar cells.