Solar cells are given antireflection coatings to maximize their efficiency. consider a silicon solar cell (n=3.50) coated with a layer of silicon dioxide (n=1.45). what is the minimum coating thickness that will minimize the reflection at the wavelength of 700 nm where solar cells are most efficient?

t = 121 nm

Explanation:

given,

silicon solar cell = n = 3.50

layer of silicon dioxide = n = 1.45

minimum coating of silicon layer thickness = ?

wavelength of reflection = 700 nm

using condition of destructive interference

n is refractive index of silicon

m is order of fringe

λ is wavelength

m = 0,1,2..

for minimum m = 0

t = 121 nm

hence, the minimum thickness of the coating is equal to t = 121 nm

hypothesising or postulating