Science Fair Ideas

Solar cells, like batteries, each have a rated value of voltage (V or volts) and amperage (A or amps).  The total power in wattage (W or watts) delivered is the voltage times the amperage.

Volts x Amps = Power (Watts) or V x A = W

Read the section about PV Panels for additional information.

If you are under 18 years old, get permission from an adult to do this experiment.

Science Fair Project Idea/ Objective:

To demonstrate how solar cells and panels are connected, like batteries, to achieve certain ratings of voltage and amperage. You will develop this idea by measuring the no-load voltage and amperage of solar cells connected in parallel.

Materials: 

1. 2 Solar Panels
2. Spinner (wooden dowel and a cardboard disk)
3. Multi-Meter

Schematic 1: (large image)

Schematic 2: (large image)

Procedure:

1. Print out this worksheet or make your own.
2. Find a sunny spot to work outside.
3. Connect the meter to one solar panel as shown in Schematic 1 and set the solar panel so that it gets a good amount of sunlight.
4. Measure the DC volts and record your data.
5. Measure the DC amps and record your data.

6. Connect the meter to two solar panels as shown in Schematic 2 and set the solar panels so that they gets a good amount of sunlight.
7. Measure the DC volts and record your data.
8. Measure the DC amps and record your data.

Expected Results:

In parallel the amperage is additive and the voltage is constant.

A_total = A₁ + A₂

So, the value of DC amps should be double for the parallel circuit while the value for DC volts should be the same for both one panel or two panels in parallel.

Try This:

Use the set up for Schematic 2. Block the sunlight to one of the panels. Measure the voltage and amperage. What happens? Why?

Further Research:

Thomas Edison and the difference between AC and DC electrical current (WGBH).

See our other pages for ideas for a science fair project in solar energy.