DP Chemistry Questionbank

Dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSC) convert solar energy into electrical energy.

(i) Describe how a DSSC converts sunlight into electrical energy.

(ii) Explain the role of the electrolyte solution containing iodide ions, I⁻, and triiodide ions, I₃⁻, in the DSSC.

Both photosynthesis and the Grätzel cell use energy from sunlight to bring about reduction. Deduce an equation for the reduction reaction in the electrolyte of a Grätzel cell.

Identify two ways in which the structure of the dye shown resembles the chlorophyll molecule. Use section 35 of the data booklet.

Suggest one advantage a DSSC has over a silicon based photovoltaic cell.

Contrast how absorption of photons and charge separation occur in each device.

The structures of 11-cis-retinal and β-carotene are given in section 35 of the data booklet. Suggest a possible wavelength of light absorbed by each molecule using section 3 of the data booklet.

Doping of silicon increases the conductivity in semiconductors.

Describe the doping in p-type and n-type semiconductors.

The natural absorption of light by chlorophyll has been copied by those developing dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). Outline how a DSSC works.

Dye-sensitized solar cells, DSSCs, use a dye to absorb the sunlight. State two advantages that DSSCs have over traditional silicon based photovoltaic cells.

Early photovoltaic cells were based on silicon containing traces of other elements. State the type of semiconductor produced by doping silicon with indium, In, giving a reason that refers to its electronic structure.

The structure of two dyes used in DSSCs are shown.

Predict, giving a reason, which dye will absorb light of longer wavelength.

Draw the Lewis (electron dot) structure for an appropriate doping element in the box in the centre identifying the type of semiconductor formed.

Outline why complex B absorbs light of longer wavelength than complex A.

State the feature of the molecules responsible for the absorption of light.

Deduce the reduction half-equation at the cathode.

Some solar cells use photovoltaic semi-conductors. Compare, giving reasons, the electrical conductivity of metals and semi-conductors as temperature increases.

Suggest one advantage of a dye-sensitized solar cell (DSSC) over a silicon based photovoltaic cell.

Sketch graphs to show the general effect of increasing temperature on the electrical conductivity of semiconductors and metals on the axes below.

Explain the function of dyes in a dye-sensitized solar cell (DSSC).