Question

If we were to illuminate them only with light from the Balmer transition considered above, would the solar panels produce a current?

Choose one • 5 points
Scene from the Martian: Astronaut walks toward solar panels on Mars.

Yes

No

Answer 1

No. The Balmer transitions emit light mainly in the visible spectrum, but solar panels are designed to be most effective with a broader range of wavelengths, including infrared and ultraviolet light. While they might generate some current from the visible light of the Balmer series, it would likely be insufficient compared to the full spectrum of sunlight they would normally receive. Thus, if illuminated only by the light from the Balmer transition, they would not produce a significant current.