*Question G4E08:
In what configuration are the individual cells in a solar panel connected together?*  

*Correct Answer is  A: Series-parallel*  

### AI Response: (may contain errors)  

In a solar panel, the individual cells are connected in a **series-parallel** configuration. Here's why:

1. **Correct Answer: Series-parallel**
   - **Series Connection**: Solar cells are connected in series to increase the voltage output. When cells are connected in series, the total voltage is the sum of the individual cell voltages. For example, if each cell produces 0.5 volts, connecting 36 cells in series would produce 18 volts.
   - **Parallel Connection**: Cells or groups of cells are connected in parallel to increase the current capacity. In a parallel connection, the total current is the sum of the individual currents from each parallel branch.

   This combination allows solar panels to produce a higher power output, which is the product of voltage and current:  
   $$ P = V \times I $$  
   where $P$ is power, $V$ is voltage, and $I$ is current.

2. **Why the Other Choices are Incorrect:**
   - **B: Shunt**: A shunt configuration typically refers to a parallel connection used to measure current or bypass current around a component, not for connecting solar cells.
   - **C: Bypass**: Bypass refers to a method used to prevent damage to solar cells by allowing current to bypass a cell or group of cells that are shaded or damaged. It is not a configuration for connecting cells to produce power.
   - **D: Full-wave bridge**: A full-wave bridge is a type of rectifier circuit used to convert AC to DC, not a method for connecting solar cells.

In summary, the series-parallel configuration is used to optimize both the voltage and current output of a solar panel, making it the correct choice for how individual cells are connected.