Question
In what configuration are the individual cells in a solar panel connected together?
Answer Options
- A) Series-parallel
- B) Shunt
- C) Bypass
- D) Full-wave bridge
Correct Answer: A
Explanation
Solar panels are composed of many small, individual photovoltaic cells. A single cell only produces a low voltage (around 0.5 \text{V}) and a limited amount of current. To achieve the required voltage and current for charging a 12\text{-volt} battery, these individual cells are connected in a series-parallel configuration.
Cells are connected in series to increase the total output voltage to a usable level (e.g., 36 cells in series for a 17-18\text{V} output). Multiple strings of these series-connected cells are then connected in parallel to increase the total available output current.
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