General Science question from Panchayat Secretary (VLW) exam, 2025 by JKSSB
Which one of the elements is the main constituent in making solar cells?
Last updated Jun 9, 2026
Correct Answer:
Option A —
Silicon
Silicon is a semiconductor, which means its ability to conduct electricity falls between that of a conductor (like metal) and an insulator (like plastic).
When sunlight hits a silicon solar cell, the photons of light knock electrons free from the silicon atoms. This flow of electrons creates an electrical current. Silicon is chosen because it is highly efficient at this process, incredibly abundant (it's the main ingredient in beach sand), and highly durable.
Silver and Gold are excellent conductors, but they are too expensive and don't have the semiconductor properties needed to convert light into electricity (though silver is often used in tiny amounts for the grid lines/wires on top of the cell to collect the electricity).
Carbon (in its standard forms) does not possess the right semiconducting properties for traditional solar cells.
Answer verified by Quintessence Classes faculty — Karan Nagar, Srinagar.
