Photodiode Light Detector

This light detector is a current-to-voltage converter. The FET input op-amp prevents the
loading of the photodiode and the voltage at the output is proportional to the current in the
photodiode. So long as the photodiode response to the light is linear, the output voltage is
proportional to the light falling on the photodiode.

Photodiodes
A photodiode consists of an active p-n junction which is operated in reverse bias. When light
falls on the junction, a reverse current flows which is proportional to the illuminance. The linear
response to light makes it an element in useful photodetectors for some applications. It is also
used as the active element in light-activated switches.

Source:
hyperphysics.phy-astr.gsu.edu/hbase/electronic/photdet.html