The basic element of Solar panels is the same element that helped create the computer revolution -- pure silicon. Cells are the main component in solar power systems and many sources refer to solar panels as photovoltaic cells, which references the importance of light (photos) in the generation of electrical voltage.

However two plates of pure silicon would not generate electricity, because they have is no positive or negative charge created. So Cells are created by combining silicon with other elements (such as boron, which only has three electrons to offer) that do have positive or negative charges.

Solar Cells, or photovoltaic cells, are arranged in a grid-like pattern on the surface of the solar panel but are fragile so they must be mounted in a rigid frame, and the solar panels usually have a polka dot or chequered pattern.

The two plates are sandwiched together in solar panels, with conductive wires running between them. When the negative plates of solar cells are pointed at a proper angle to the sun, photons bombard the silicon/phosphorus atoms thus producing a charge. However the electricity generated by one solar cell is not very impressive, but when all of the conductive wires draw the free electrons away from the plates, there is enough electricity to power low amperage motors or other electronics.

Battery chargin.

Solar panels can be used in a wide variety of applications including charging AA, AAA, 6 volt, 12 volt, marine and Motor Home batteries, mobile phones, and laptops.

A 12V nominal solar module is designed to charge a 12V battery. But to do so, it must produce a higher voltage than the battery. A fully charged 12V flooded lead-acid battery can register as high as 14V.

It is always recommended to use a solar regulator to connect your solar panel to your boat or motor home battery bank as this ???regulates??? the charging process, as the primary purpose of a charge controller (or regulator)is to prevent overcharging your battery. A solar panel and charge controller combination will increase the life of your battery by using charging algorithms.

In Conclusion.

There is a lot of complex detail to how solar panels are made and how they work, but all you need to know is that they turn sun into beautiful clean, green renewable energy.