What device changes radiant energy in electrical energy?

Answer 1

Solar panels change radiant energy into electrical energy. Solar panels contain photovoltaic cells which are comprised of semiconductors which require little energy to emit electrons. The radiant energy contains well.. energy! This energy is stored in the photons, the ''packs'' light or other radiant energy comes in. This photons come in contact with the photovoltaic cells (which would appear as sheets of metal) passes on energy and this added amount of energy causes the material (photovoltaic cells) to emit electrons. The electrons (negative charge) are attracted to a positively charged metal (relative to the incident metal which the photons strike) and are then carried where needed (either stored or used).