Solar Panel Output: Effect of Temperature
Experiment #8 from Solar Energy Explorations
- Education Level
- Middle School
Introduction
The voltage generated by a solar panel is influenced by the amount of electrical resistance in the panel. The electrical resistance is affected by temperature. Therefore, the temperature of a solar panel can have a significant effect on its power output.
In this experiment, you will compare the power output of a solar panel when it is at room temperature, after it has been cooled in an ice bath, and after it has been heated. This will help you to understand the effect of temperature on solar panel performance.
Objectives
- Use Go Direct Energy to measure power output while varying the temperature of a solar panel.
- Determine the voltage for a solar panel at different temperatures.
- Understand how temperature affects power output for a solar panel.
Sensors and Equipment
This experiment features the following sensors and equipment. Additional equipment may be required.
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This experiment is #8 of Solar Energy Explorations. The experiment in the book includes student instructions as well as instructor information for set up, helpful hints, and sample graphs and data.
