Maximizing Solar Energy

Medium

Let's find out if the angle of the sun's rays affects the power produced by a solar cell. The hypothesis is that if the solar cell is placed perpendicular to the sun's rays, the power going to the cell will be maximized.

Hypothesis

The hypothesis is that if the solar cell is placed perpendicular to the sun's rays, the power going to the cell will be maximized.

Science Concepts Learned

Solar Cell Efficiency

The angle of the sun's rays changes how much power a solar cell produces. You mount the cell on a board, then move the board to different angles with the sun and measure the voltage going to the cell. When the cell sits perpendicular to the sun's rays, the power going to the cell is maximized.

Photovoltaic Effect

The angle of the sun's rays affects how much power a solar cell produces. You mount the cell on a board, move it to different angles with the sun, and measure the voltage going to the cell at each position. When the solar cell sits perpendicular to the sun's rays, the power going to the cell is maximized.

Solar Energy

How you aim a solar cell at the sun changes how much power it captures. You mount the cell on a board, move the board to different angles with the sun, and measure the voltage going to the cell at each position. When the cell faces the sun straight on, the power going to the cell is maximized.

Voltage and Current

Tilting a solar cell changes both the push and the flow of electricity it produces. You mount the cell on a board, move the board to different angles with the sun, and measure the voltage going to the cell at each position. When the cell sits perpendicular to the sun's rays, the power going to the cell is maximized.

Angle of Incidence

How much power a solar cell produces depends on the tilt between the sun's rays and the cell's surface. You mount the cell on a board, then move the board to different angles with the sun and measure the voltage going to the cell. When the cell sits perpendicular to the sun's rays, the power going to the cell is maximized.

Method & Materials

You will set up a fan and a solar cell on a board, then move the board to different angles with the sun and measure the voltage going to the cell.

You will need a solar cell, three boards, a fan, a voltage meter, string, two screws, and a protractor.

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Results

The results of the experiment showed that when the cell was perpendicular to the ground, the energy was 4/5 volts. When it was at a right angle to the sun, however, it measured 3/5 volts. At other angles, it measured from 0 to 4/5 volts. This data suggests that the hypothesis is not accurate.

Why do this project?

This science project is interesting because it explores the potential of solar energy as an alternative source of energy.

Also Consider

Experiment variations to consider include testing the effect of different types of solar cells on the power produced, or testing the effect of different weather conditions on the power produced.