Learning Goals
Learning Goals:
- Using a Vernier Pyranometer, students will measure electromagnetic radiation in watts per square meter (W/m2 ).
- Students will compare Sunlight irradiance with various indoor lighting options.
- Students will make a recommendation as to the optimum indoor lighting for powering solar panels.
Materials List
Handouts
- Student Engineering Notebooks
- Light Source Efficiency Worksheet
Classroom Supplies
- 1 LabQuest2
- Vernier pyranometer
- 2 Volt Solar panel
- 2 Wire leads with clips
- Various lights (fluorescent, halogen, incandescent, light-emitting diodes)
- Light stand(s)
Optional: Group Supplies (2 per group)
- LabQuest2
- Vernier pyranometer
- 2 Volt Solar panel
- 2 Wire leads with clips
- 1 Fluorescent light
- 1 Halogen light
- 1 Incandescent light
- 1 LED light
- 1 Light stand
- Outdoor access for gathering Sun data
Important Links
Next Generation Science Standards
Next Generation Science Standards
| Performance Expectation | How is this Assessed? |
| MS-PS2-2 Plan an investigation to provide evidence that the change in an object’s motion depends on the sum of the forces on the object and the mass of the object. | Students investigate the Center of Gravity using a meter stick and clay. Then they participate in an activity that works with irregular objects and finding the Center of Gravity leading up to finding the center of their irregular shaped aircraft that will be used on the solar mobile. |
| MS-ETS1-4 Develop a model to generate data for iterative testing and modification of a proposed object, tool or process such that an optimal design can be achieved | Students work through modifications and apply what was learned about solar circuits, the center of gravity, and irradiance as they build their final model. |