CT Solar PV Contractor Exam Questions
and Correct Answers (Verified Answers)
Plus Rationale 2027 Q&A| Instant
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1. Which component converts the direct current (DC) output of a
photovoltaic array into alternating current (AC) for use by typical
building loads?
A. Combiner box
B. Charge controller
C. Inverter
D. Disconnect switch
Rationale: A grid-tied inverter converts the DC electricity produced by
PV modules into AC electricity compatible with building electrical
systems and, when permitted, the utility grid. A combiner combines
circuits, a charge controller regulates battery charging, and a
disconnect provides isolation.
, 2. What is the primary function of a photovoltaic module?
A. Convert AC power to DC power
B. Convert sunlight into electrical energy
C. Store electrical energy for nighttime use
D. Regulate utility voltage
Rationale: PV modules use semiconductor cells to convert solar
radiation directly into DC electrical energy through the photovoltaic
effect. They do not inherently store energy or convert AC power.
3. In a series-connected string of PV modules, which electrical
quantity remains approximately the same through each module?
A. Voltage
B. Power
C. Resistance
D. Current
Rationale: In a series circuit, the same current flows through each
component, while the individual module voltages add together. This
principle is used to increase string voltage.
4. What happens to the voltage of identical PV modules when they
are connected in series?
,A. The voltage remains the same
B. The voltage becomes zero
C. The module voltages add together
D. The voltage is divided equally between positive and negative
conductors
Rationale: Series-connected voltage sources add their voltages.
Therefore, three identical 40-volt modules connected in series would
have an operating voltage of approximately 120 volts under
comparable conditions.
5. What happens to current when identical PV modules are
connected in parallel?
A. The current decreases to zero
B. The currents add together
C. The voltage doubles automatically
D. The frequency increases
Rationale: Parallel-connected sources operate at approximately the
same voltage while their current capacities add. This allows a PV
array to increase its available current.
6. What condition generally produces the highest electrical output
from a PV module?
, A. Heavy shading
B. Covered glass
C. Strong sunlight with appropriate operating temperature
D. Complete darkness
Rationale: PV modules require sunlight to generate electricity. Strong
irradiance generally increases current and power production,
although module temperature also affects voltage and overall output.
7. What is the purpose of a PV system disconnecting means?
A. Increase module efficiency
B. Increase battery capacity
C. Provide a means to isolate equipment from electrical sources
D. Convert DC to AC
Rationale: Disconnecting means allow equipment and circuits to be
isolated for servicing, maintenance, emergency response, or other
required purposes. They are an important part of electrical safety.
8. Which device is commonly used to combine multiple PV string
outputs into a larger circuit?
A. Transformer
B. Inverter
and Correct Answers (Verified Answers)
Plus Rationale 2027 Q&A| Instant
Download Pdf
1. Which component converts the direct current (DC) output of a
photovoltaic array into alternating current (AC) for use by typical
building loads?
A. Combiner box
B. Charge controller
C. Inverter
D. Disconnect switch
Rationale: A grid-tied inverter converts the DC electricity produced by
PV modules into AC electricity compatible with building electrical
systems and, when permitted, the utility grid. A combiner combines
circuits, a charge controller regulates battery charging, and a
disconnect provides isolation.
, 2. What is the primary function of a photovoltaic module?
A. Convert AC power to DC power
B. Convert sunlight into electrical energy
C. Store electrical energy for nighttime use
D. Regulate utility voltage
Rationale: PV modules use semiconductor cells to convert solar
radiation directly into DC electrical energy through the photovoltaic
effect. They do not inherently store energy or convert AC power.
3. In a series-connected string of PV modules, which electrical
quantity remains approximately the same through each module?
A. Voltage
B. Power
C. Resistance
D. Current
Rationale: In a series circuit, the same current flows through each
component, while the individual module voltages add together. This
principle is used to increase string voltage.
4. What happens to the voltage of identical PV modules when they
are connected in series?
,A. The voltage remains the same
B. The voltage becomes zero
C. The module voltages add together
D. The voltage is divided equally between positive and negative
conductors
Rationale: Series-connected voltage sources add their voltages.
Therefore, three identical 40-volt modules connected in series would
have an operating voltage of approximately 120 volts under
comparable conditions.
5. What happens to current when identical PV modules are
connected in parallel?
A. The current decreases to zero
B. The currents add together
C. The voltage doubles automatically
D. The frequency increases
Rationale: Parallel-connected sources operate at approximately the
same voltage while their current capacities add. This allows a PV
array to increase its available current.
6. What condition generally produces the highest electrical output
from a PV module?
, A. Heavy shading
B. Covered glass
C. Strong sunlight with appropriate operating temperature
D. Complete darkness
Rationale: PV modules require sunlight to generate electricity. Strong
irradiance generally increases current and power production,
although module temperature also affects voltage and overall output.
7. What is the purpose of a PV system disconnecting means?
A. Increase module efficiency
B. Increase battery capacity
C. Provide a means to isolate equipment from electrical sources
D. Convert DC to AC
Rationale: Disconnecting means allow equipment and circuits to be
isolated for servicing, maintenance, emergency response, or other
required purposes. They are an important part of electrical safety.
8. Which device is commonly used to combine multiple PV string
outputs into a larger circuit?
A. Transformer
B. Inverter
