Solar Cell Power Output vs. Light Intensity and Temperature

Overview

Objectives/Goals The object of this study is to determine the effects of variations of light intensity and temperature on solar cell power production. Methods/Materials Tested 330 lumen, 1600 lumen, and 4000 lumen light bulbs' effects on solar cell power production. Also used dry ice spray and a hair dryer to test the effects of cooler and warmer temperatures on solar cell power production. Two 100mA mini solar cells were used in the test. Results Conducted 20 trials each for the 330 lumen, 1600 lumen and 4000 lumen light bulbs, and varied the temperature of the solar panel with dry ice spray and a hair dryer for the three sets of 20 trials. For all three light bulbs, the results showed increased solar cell power production at cooler temperatures vs warmer temperatures. Also, the higher the lumen light bulb output, the more power the solar cell produced. Conclusions/Discussion The 60 total trials produced consistent results. In conclusion, a solar panel will generate more power when it is exposed to more light and cooler temperatures and will generate less power when it is exposed to less light and warmer temperatures.

Competition history

• CSEF 2017 Product Science (Physical) (Junior Division Only) · Entry J2106

Resources

• CSEF project summary ↗

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