Investigating Photovoltaic Cells (Developed by SEPUP)
kit #220S
Students use photovoltaic cells to transform energy from sunlight into electrical energy as they investigate solar energy as an example of a renewable energy source.
They explore how to power a motor using the photovoltaic cells and investigate some factors that affect the cells' ability to transform light energy into electricity.
They then discuss the advantages and disadvantages of using solar energy.
Accommodates unlimited classes, each with 6 groups of 4 students
- Energy is transferred in many ways
- Electrical circuits provide a means of transferring electrical energy
- The Sun is a major source of energy
- Students design and conduct a scientific investigation
- Students develop descriptions, explanations, predictions, and models using evidence
Content List in Investigating Photovoltaic Cells (Developed by SEPUP) is as follows:
Quantity | Description |
---|---|
1 | Teacher’s Guide with MSDS |
28 | Student Worksheets and Guides |
6 | Electric motors |
6 | Photovoltaic cells |
6 | Red wire leads with clips |
6 | Black wire leads with clips |
6 | Cardboard sunshields |
1 | Transparency: Sample Procedure and Data Table |
- Recommended number of students
- maximum 24 per class
- Number of groups
- 6 per class
- Number of classes
- unlimited (no consumable materials)

To complete this kit requires one to two ~50 minute periods
Kit #205S Investigating the Design & Output of Wet Cell Batteries
Kit #206RS Comparing the Energy Efficiency of Different Light Bulbs
Kit #209S The Electromagnetic Spectrum
Kit #211 Energy Transfer: Waves, Sound and Light
Kit #213 Energy Transfer: Motors, Generators and Sources of Electricity