Abstract: A solar cell is provided wherein a circular polarizer is positioned proximate an absorptive semiconductor layer which itself is separated from an electrode, such as a loop of conductive metal, by an electrically insulative layer. Upon exposure to non-polarized light, a portion of the incident light is polarized and transmitted to the semiconductor layer. Under the influence of this polarized light, photo excited electrons in the semiconductor layer are induced to move in a circular motion, thereby generating magnetic fields. These magnetic fields drive the flow of current within the electrode.

Abstract: A solar cell is provided wherein a circular polarizer is positioned proximate a transparent conductor layer which itself is separated from a loop of conductive metal by an electrically insulative layer. Upon exposure to non-polarized light, a portion of the incident light is polarized and transmitted to the transparent conductor layer. Under the influence of this polarized light, free electrons in the conductor layer are induced to move in a circular motion, thereby generating magnetic fields. These magnetic fields drive the flow of current within the conductive metal loop.