Solar batteries
Solar batteries are electronic devices that use the phenomenon of photovoltaic conversion of light into electricity. Each small cell produces a small current, but a large number of cells, interconnected is unable to produce a current output of power. The cells are constructed from thin layers of semiconductors, usually silicon. Sometimes used gallium arsenic, because it allows cells to work at high temperatures. This is important for applications in space, where solar radiation is much stronger. Batteries are also used in small calculators and watches.
In 1981, solar aircraft Solar Challenger flew over the Channel as a source of power using only solar energy. Wing of the airplane were covered with solar batteries, which supplied the electric motor. Florida, United States, public telephones are powered by solar panels mounted on the roof that protects them.