How Light Intensity Affects Solar Cell Output

Solar Circuit
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Intended Grade Level(s):
6-8
Energy Content:
Circuitry,
Electrical Energy,
Electricity Generation,
Light (Visible),
Solar Photovoltaic
Learning Goal(s):

After the completion of this lab, students will be able to describe how the light intensity affects solar cell output, have practiced using a multimeter, and have analyzed collected data.

Unit:
PV Output
Lesson Number:
2
Pedagogy & Practice:
Group Work/Collaboration,
Hands-on Materials
NGSS Science and Engineering Practices:
3: Planning and Carrying Out Investigations,
4: Analyzing and Interpreting Data,
6: Constructing Explanations and Designing Solutions,
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-intensity.pdf
PDF icon PV-output-intensity-handout.pdf
Description:

Students will expose solar cells to a light source from different distances and measure the output with a multimeter. They will compare and contrast the outputs that the different distances produce.

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) • 250-500 W camping or shop lights • Meter stick/ruler • “Measuring Solar Cell Output—Light Intensity” student handout