Which device converts direct current from a solar panel to alternating current for the power system?

Which device converts direct current from a solar panel to alternating current for the power system?

• A. Inverter
• B. Rectifier
• C. Transformer
• D. Battery

Answer: (A)

Direct current from a solar panel must be turned into alternating current so it can power standard AC equipment and be integrated into the electrical system. That conversion is done by an inverter. An inverter takes the DC produced by the panels and creates AC at the appropriate voltage and frequency, often providing a clean sine-wave output and synchronization with the grid or local loads. Many inverters also include MPPT features to optimize energy harvest by tracking the panel’s maximum power point. A rectifier does the opposite: it converts AC to DC. A transformer changes the voltage of AC but doesn’t convert DC to AC. A battery stores DC energy and does not supply AC by itself.

Direct current from a solar panel must be turned into alternating current so it can power standard AC equipment and be integrated into the electrical system. That conversion is done by an inverter. An inverter takes the DC produced by the panels and creates AC at the appropriate voltage and frequency, often providing a clean sine-wave output and synchronization with the grid or local loads. Many inverters also include MPPT features to optimize energy harvest by tracking the panel’s maximum power point.

A rectifier does the opposite: it converts AC to DC. A transformer changes the voltage of AC but doesn’t convert DC to AC. A battery stores DC energy and does not supply AC by itself.