How the Amount of Light Affects a Solar Cell

Solar Circuit
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Intended Grade Level(s):
6-8
Energy Content:
Circuitry,
Electrical Energy,
Electricity Generation,
Light (Visible),
Solar Photovoltaic
Unit:
PV Output
Lesson Number:
1
Pedagogy & Practice:
Group Work/Collaboration,
Hands-on Materials
NGSS Science and Engineering Practices:
3: Planning and Carrying Out Investigations,
4: Analyzing and Interpreting Data,
7: Engaging in Argument from Evidence
Other Subjects Covered:
ELA: Writing,
Math: Graphing & Representation,
Math: Measurement
Estimated Activity Length:
40 min
Files Associated with this Activity:
PDF icon PV-output-shade.pdf
PDF icon PV-output-shade-handout.pdf
Description:

Students will cover portions of a solar cell and measure the output with a multimeter. They will compare and contrast the outputs of different percentages shaded and different configurations using the same percentage shaded. 

Science Kit Material(s) Used:
1.5-Volt 500mA Solar Module
2-Volt, 500mA Solar Modules
3-Volt, 1A Solar Module
Multimeter
Vernier Resistor Board
Other Material(s) Used:
Resistor (or small load) • Black construction paper/cardboard