Related Experiment Video
Updated: Oct 28, 2025
09:23
Quantum State Engineering of Light with Continuous-wave Optical Parametric Oscillators
Published on: May 30, 2014
14.8K
Quantum photocells as nonequilibrium systems
Jingyi Chen1, Tong Fu1, Shanhe Su1
1Department of Physics, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361005, People's Republic of China.
Physical Review. E
|July 17, 2021
Summary
Researchers propose a new light-harvesting system to accurately measure photocell power. Interference effects significantly boost power output, offering a foundation for advanced photoelectric converters.
Area of Science:
- Quantum effects in nanoscale energy harvesting.
- Thermodynamics of energy conversion.
Background:
- Standard photocell models face a power generation paradox.
- Existing nanoscale studies often focus on quantum effects.
Purpose of the Study:
- To accurately measure power generated by a photocell.
- To investigate methods for enhancing photocell power output.
Main Methods:
- Proposed a light-harvesting system connected to Fermi contacts.
- Utilized thermodynamics analyses to identify a paradox.
Main Results:
- Interference effects between transition channels are crucial.
- Demonstrated a method to accurately measure photocell power.
- Identified a paradox in standard photocell models.
Conclusions:
- The proposed model enhances photocell power output.
- Interference effects are key to improving photoelectric conversion.
- Provides a foundation for future photoelectric converter development.
Related Concept Videos
02:26Photoelectric Effect
36.3K
When light of a particular wavelength strikes a metal surface, electrons are emitted. This is called the photoelectric effect. The minimum frequency of light that can cause such emission of electrons is called the threshold frequency, which is specific to the metal. Light with a frequency lower than the threshold frequency, even if it is of high intensity, cannot initiate the emission of electrons. However, when the frequency is higher than the threshold value, the number of electrons ejected...
36.3K
01:14Photoluminescence: Applications
580
Photoluminescence offers a wide range of applications due to its inherent sensitivity and selectivity. This technique allows for both direct and indirect analyses of the analyte. Direct quantitative analysis is possible when the analyte exhibits a favorable quantum yield for fluorescence or phosphorescence. However, an indirect analysis may be feasible if the analyte is not fluorescent or phosphorescent, or if the quantum yield is unfavorable. Indirect methods include reacting the analyte with...
580
01:16Non-equilibrium in the Cell
5.0K
An important concept in studying metabolism and energy is that of chemical equilibrium. Most chemical reactions are reversible. They can proceed in both directions, releasing energy into their environment in one direction, and absorbing it from the environment in the other direction. The same is true for the chemical reactions involved in cell metabolism, such as the breaking down and building up of proteins into and from individual amino acids, respectively. Reactants within a closed system...
5.0K
01:26Thermal and Photochemical Electrocyclic Reactions: Overview
2.6K
Electrocyclic reactions are reversible reactions. They involve an intramolecular cyclization or ring-opening of a conjugated polyene. Shown below are two examples of electrocyclic reactions. In the first reaction, the formation of the cyclic product is favored. In contrast, in the second reaction, ring-opening is favored due to the high ring strain associated with cyclobutene formation.
2.6K
01:23Photoluminescence: Fluorescence and Phosphorescence
2.6K
Photoluminescence is a process where a molecule absorbs light energy and re-emits it in the form of light. This phenomenon occurs when a substance absorbs photons, promoting its electrons to higher energy level excited states, followed by a relaxation process in which the electrons return to their original ground state energy levels and emit light. Photoluminescence is widely observed in various materials, including semiconductors, and organic and inorganic compounds.
A pair of electrons in a...
A pair of electrons in a...
2.6K