Question

solar panels convert light energy from sunlight into electrical energy. what material is most likely used in solar panels, and why?
a nonmetal is used because it is a semiconductor and can become more conductive when more light shines on it.
a metalloid is used because it is a good conductor but can become less conductive when more light shines on it.
a metalloid is used because it is a semiconductor and can become more conductive when more light shines on it.
a nonmetal is used because it is a poor conductor but can become more conductive when more light shines on it.

Explanation:

To determine the correct answer, we analyze the properties of materials used in solar panels:

1. Solar panels rely on semiconductors (like silicon, a metalloid) that exhibit photoconductivity—their conductivity increases with light exposure.
2. Nonmetals are typically poor conductors and not semiconductors in the context of solar panels.
3. Metalloids (e.g., silicon) are semiconductors, and their conductivity rises with more light (photoconductivity), which is essential for solar panels to convert light to electricity.
4. The option stating a metalloid is used because it is a semiconductor and becomes more conductive with light matches these properties.

Answer:

C. A metalloid is used because it is a semiconductor and can become more conductive when more light shines on it.