Definition

The technology that converts sunlight into electrical energy.

Example

Many homes are now using photovoltaics to generate their own electricity from the sun.

Conversation

Have you heard about photovoltaics and how they work?

Yeah, it’s pretty cool how they convert sunlight into electricity.

I want to learn more about integrating photovoltaics into home energy systems.

That would be great! It could really help reduce energy costs.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Photovoltaics is formed from "photo-" (from Greek "phōs", meaning light) and "voltaics" (from Italian "volt", named after Alessandro Volta, meaning relating to electric potential). The term refers to the technology that converts light into electrical energy.

Memory Tip

Think of 'light' ('photo-') being transformed into 'electricity' ('voltaics') — that's what photovoltaics does.

Visually Confused Words