Solar Cells and Energy Output in a Passive Solar System Lab
Objective:
To experiment with solar cells and compare energy output with different variables in
order to learn the ways that passive solar systems work. Energy efficiency, advantages
and disadvantages of solar energy, and economics and environmental implications of
solar energy.
Time:
This lab will take approximately 1 hour.
Materials:
·
Solar cell
·
Alligator clips
·
Voltmeter
Procedure:
1. Strip the ends off the wires of the solar cell and connect a voltmeter to the wires
with alligator clips.
2. Hold the solar cell up to a fluorescent bulb and record the output in volts in the
table that follows.
3. Hold the solar cell up to an incandescent bulb and record the output in volts in
the table.
4. Go outside and hold the solar cell toward the Sun and record the output in volts
in the table.
5. Repeat steps 2 through 4 while using a piece of solar screen to cover the solar
cell. Calculate how much energy (in the form of volts) is saved when you use
solar screens.
Data and calculations:
Fluorescent
Without solar
screen
Incandescent
Sun
With solar screen
Energy saved
Analysis:
1. Was one light source more effective than the others? Explain why. Use data
from your measurements to support your answer.
2. Was one light source less effective than the others? Explain why. Use data from
your measurements to support your answer.
3. Using the formula for percent change, use your measurements with the solar
screen to figure out what percent of light was actually getting through.
4. Explain how solar cells are used in real life.
5. Describe the difference between passive and active solar systems.