The materials suitable for making a solar cell is

Options

A. PbS
B. GaAs
C. CdSe
D. Ge

Answer

To determine the suitable materials for making a solar cell, we need to analyze the bandgap energy of the given materials. The bandgap energy is crucial for the efficiency of a solar cell, as it affects how well the material can absorb sunlight and convert it into electricity.

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Identify the Materials and Their Bandgap Energies**:
- **Option 1: PbS (Lead Sulfide)** - Bandgap = 0.41 eV
- **Option 2: Gallium Arsenide (GaAs)** - Bandgap = 1.53 eV
- **Option 3: Cadmium Selenide (CdSe)** - Bandgap = 1.74 eV
- **Option 4: Germanium (Ge)** - Bandgap = 1.84 eV

2. **Determine the Ideal Bandgap for Solar Cells**:
- The ideal bandgap for a solar cell is typically around 1.5 eV. This value allows for optimal absorption of sunlight and conversion to electrical energy.

3. **Compare the Bandgap Values**:
- **PbS (0.41 eV)**: Too low for effective solar cell operation.
- **GaAs (1.53 eV)**: Close to the ideal bandgap of 1.5 eV.
- **CdSe (1.74 eV)**: Slightly higher than the ideal bandgap.
- **Ge (1.84 eV)**: Higher than the ideal bandgap.

4. **Select the Most Suitable Material**:
- Among the options, Gallium Arsenide (GaAs) has a bandgap of 1.53 eV, which is very close to the ideal value of 1.5 eV. Therefore, it is the most suitable material for making a solar cell.

5. **Conclusion**:
- The correct answer is **Option 2: Gallium Arsenide (GaAs)**.