Photovoltaics
Student Handout:
Materials:
Solar Power
In this project you will be constructing multiple solar-powered electrical circuits, but before you get the materials you need to answer some questions.
1. You will be using photovoltaic solar panels in the circuits you create. How do photovoltaic solar cells turn the sun's energy into electricity? Once you've written your answer, see the teacher for supplies for building your circuit.
2. Building- You will be using a solderless breadboard to build your circuit. If you are not sure how to use a breadboard you'll need to do a bit of research.
How many solar panels does it take to light the first LED? Draw your circuit and see the teacher for your next set of supplies.
3. Now build a circuit that will light two LED's. How many solar panels does it take to light two LED's?
Draw your circuit below:
4. Was there a difference in the number of solar panels you needed? Why do you think that is?
5. With your group, create a useful device powered by photovoltaic cells. Start brainstorming what that might be. Do some Google searches for inspiration. In three days you will make a 'Shark Tank' presentation to potential investors, in which you need to pitch your device, highlighting its novelty, ingenuity, and potential market.
RESOURCES:
Materials:
Solar Power
In this project you will be constructing multiple solar-powered electrical circuits, but before you get the materials you need to answer some questions.
1. You will be using photovoltaic solar panels in the circuits you create. How do photovoltaic solar cells turn the sun's energy into electricity? Once you've written your answer, see the teacher for supplies for building your circuit.
2. Building- You will be using a solderless breadboard to build your circuit. If you are not sure how to use a breadboard you'll need to do a bit of research.
How many solar panels does it take to light the first LED? Draw your circuit and see the teacher for your next set of supplies.
3. Now build a circuit that will light two LED's. How many solar panels does it take to light two LED's?
Draw your circuit below:
4. Was there a difference in the number of solar panels you needed? Why do you think that is?
5. With your group, create a useful device powered by photovoltaic cells. Start brainstorming what that might be. Do some Google searches for inspiration. In three days you will make a 'Shark Tank' presentation to potential investors, in which you need to pitch your device, highlighting its novelty, ingenuity, and potential market.
RESOURCES:
- Technology Exchange Laboratory
- Evil Mad Scientist- Solar Cells
- Photovoltaic Cells
- Instructables- PV Solar Projects
- NEED Curriculum Guide
- Tesla Solar Roof
- Solar City
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