The given characteristic curve is related to which electronic device?

For three circuit elements $A, B$ and $C$,following observations were made in lab:
$(a)$ element $A$ cannot conduct $d.c.$ but allows $a.c.$ through it.
$(b)$ element $B$ conducts both $AC$ and $DC$ but in one direction only.
$(c)$ Element $C$,when connected across $DC$,conducts only for one polarity and emits light whose intensity first increases and then decreases with increase in applied voltage.
The elements $A, B$ and $C$ are respectively identified as

To measure light intensity,we use:

Photodiodes are mostly operated in reverse biased condition because

Select the correct statement.

Why are $Si$ and $GaAs$ preferred materials for solar cells?