What angle do solar cells get the most power and WHY?

Question

I especially need to know WHY!

Answer 1

Well obviously directly facing the sun would get you the most sunlight contact.

But facing directly upwards is usually the way it is done since the sun around noon goes through less atmosphere to reach it. (though because of rain this produces problems)

Answer 2

Pointing straight to the SUN will give max. power. Its' simple. Max Sunlight falls on Equator of our Earth. Less heat at poles. Its the position  that give max power. Always keep it pointed towards the SUN directly

Answer 3

First of all, not every roof has the correct orientation or angle of inclination to take advantage of the sun's energy. Non-tracking PV systems in the Northern Hemisphere should point toward true south (this is the orientation). They should be inclined at an angle equal to the area's latitude to absorb the maximum amount of energy year-round. A different orientation and/or inclination could be used if you want to maximize energy production for the morning or afternoon.

Answer 4

Ideally you want it 90 degrees to the sun but, unless you have a rotating array you won't always have that.  The next best, I think, is at the median range of the sun's angle of incidence, half way through it's travel.

90 degrees has the highest intensity because the radiation is least dispersed.  Hope that's what's wanted.