Photoelectric cell

{
  "id": "MLC-T-MET-007909",
  "term": "Photoelectric cell",
  "field": "Meteorology and atmospheric science",
  "definition": "A device that converts light energy into an electrical signal or whose electrical properties are altered by exposure to light. This general term encompasses photovoltaic cells, which generate a voltage; photoconductive cells, which change resistance; and photoemissive cells, which emit electrons. These cells are the fundamental sensing elements in many meteorological instruments, including pyranometers and pyrheliometers, used for measuring solar irradiance across different spectral bands.",
  "synonyms": [
    "photo cell"
  ],
  "see_also": [
    "photoelectric effect"
  ],
  "url": "https://mlchart.com/terminology/meteorology/photoelectric-cell/"
}