photovoltaic

UK: ˌfəʊtəʊvɒlˈteɪɪk | US: ˌfoʊtoʊvɑːlˈteɪɪk

Definition

  1. adj. relating to the production of electric current at the junction of two substances exposed to light

Structure
photo <light>volt <electric unit>ic <adjective suffix>
Etymology

The word "photovoltaic" combines three morphemes:

  1. "Photo" (from Greek phōs/phōt-, meaning "light") refers to light energy.
  2. "Volt" (named after Alessandro Volta, inventor of the electric battery) represents electricity.
  3. The suffix "-ic" forms an adjective, indicating a relationship to the combined concept.
    The term emerged in the 19th century to describe the phenomenon where light generates voltage in materials, later applied to solar technology.
Examples

  1. Photovoltaic cells convert sunlight directly into electricity.

  2. The rooftop photovoltaic system powers the entire building.

  3. Researchers are improving photovoltaic efficiency for renewable energy.

  4. Many satellites rely on photovoltaic panels for long-term operation.

  5. The village installed photovoltaic lamps to replace diesel generators.