photovoltaics
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photovoltaics
The technology in which sunlight is converted directly into electrical energy using solar cells.
Durch Photovoltaik auf dem Dach können wir unseren eigenen Strom erzeugen.
Through photovoltaics on the roof, we can generate our own electricity.
The word is made up of two parts: 'Photo' comes from Greek and means 'light'. 'Voltaik' refers to the physicist Alessandro Volta, after whom the electrical unit 'Volt' is named. So 'Photovoltaik' (photovoltaics) literally means 'light electricity'.
Die Erfindung der Photovoltaik war ein Meilenstein für erneuerbare Energien.
The invention of photovoltaics was a milestone for renewable energy.
'Photovoltaik' (photovoltaics) is the exact technical term from physics and engineering. It is used especially in technical documentation, scientific texts, and the energy sector.
Der Ingenieur ist Experte für Photovoltaik.
The engineer is an expert in photovoltaics.
The word is very often used in the combination 'Photovoltaik-Anlage' (photovoltaic system). Other typical combinations are 'Photovoltaik nutzen' (to use photovoltaics), 'Photovoltaik installieren' (to install photovoltaics), or 'die Förderung von Photovoltaik' (the promotion/subsidizing of photovoltaics).
Immer mehr Hausbesitzer installieren eine Photovoltaik-Anlage auf ihrem Dach.
More and more homeowners are installing a photovoltaic system on their roof.
As a term for a technology, 'Photovoltaik' (photovoltaics) is an uncountable noun. It is therefore almost always used in the singular.
Die Forschung im Bereich der Photovoltaik macht große Fortschritte.
Research in the field of photovoltaics is making great progress.
solar cell
'die Photovoltaik' and 'die Solarzelle' both belong to the topic of electricity from sunlight. They can be confused because solar cells are used in photovoltaics. The difference is: 'Photovoltaik' refers to the whole technology or process. 'Solarzelle' refers to an individual component that converts light into electricity. Many solar cells together often form a solar panel. When you are talking about the method or a form of energy, 'Photovoltaik' fits. When you are talking about the specific technical part, 'Solarzelle' fits.
Auf dem Dach der Schule wird Photovoltaik genutzt, um Strom zu erzeugen.
Photovoltaics is used on the roof of the school to generate electricity.
Eine Solarzelle in dem kleinen Rechner liefert genug Strom für das Display.
A solar cell in the small calculator provides enough electricity for the display.