PV stands for photovoltaic. Photo = Light and Voltaic = Electricity. A solar
cell converts light to electricity.
A solar cell is made of silicon. Computer chips are made of this same material.
Basically, when light strikes the surface of a solar cell some of it is absorbed
into the silicon. This light energy bumps the electrons loose and causes energy
to flow.
By packaging approximately 36 solar cells together a solar panel or a solar
module is created. When you have more then one solar panels you create a solar
array.