Solar Power and Atmospheric Conditions

by Louis
(Armstrong)

I did a project in Middle School about how various environmental conditions effected the efficiency of Solar Panels.

To do this I obtained a solar panel from a calculator, and a volt meter. I set up in a dark room a light setup so that the lighting conditions and temperature were regulated. I read the output of the panel at normal conditions (room temperature). I then changed the thermostat to both colder and hotter in increments of 3 degrees, and measured the temp for accuracy, then read the output of the panel. Finally I introduced fog (from a fog machine) and did the same temperature tests.

I thought this project was very interesting, but it was the one that I was assigned from my teacher at the time. To be honest I got the results I expected, and it was a really boring project.

I wouldn't explore this area further, but I might have tried to improve the efficiency of the panel in all conditions (in other words improve the design), and I think that would have been more interesting. I would not recommend this project for other kids as it is pretty lame, and will not teach the child much, nor gain any scientific respect for the child when it is presented.

Ideally you should do a project that has a neat effect, something that's flashy and still teaches something useful. That's my opinion at least.

Barry's Response Louis:

I think if my scientific company were to hire you, it would be in marketing. You seem to have a knack. Thanks for you description.

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