Discovering Solar Panels
To request field trip dates, visit https://oepreg.bnl.gov/.
Students perform hands-on experiments to analyze photovoltaic solar panel materials and panel positioning for optimal performance. They are introduced to research being conducted at Brookhaven Lab's Northeast Solar Energy Research Center (NSERC).
Vocabulary: absorption, angle of incidence, current, milliamp (mA), multimeter, photovoltaic, radiation, reflections, transmission
Session Information: This activity is available in-person only.
In-Person Session Information |
---|
|
To request field trip dates, visit https://oepreg.bnl.gov/.
NYS Learning Standards
New York State Science Learning Standards
Disciplinary Core Ideas | Crosscutting Concepts | Science and Engineering Practices |
---|---|---|
PS4.B: Electromagnetic Radiation ESS1.B: Earth and the Solar System |
Cause and Effect Energy and Matter |
Developing and Using Models Planning and Carrying Out Investigations Analyzing and Interpreting Data Constructing Explanations and Designing Solutions |
Next Generation English Language Arts Learning Standards
Speaking and Listening | Language |
---|---|
Comprehension and Collaboration |
Vocabulary Acquisition and Use |
Intermediate Science Core
Process Skills |
Major Understandings |
---|---|
Standard 4, 2 Safely and accurately use the following tool: metric ruler. Standard 4, 3 Use appropriate units for measured or calculated values. Standard 1, S2.1a Demonstrate appropriate safety techniques. Standard 1, S2.1b Conduct an experiment design by others. Standard 1, S2.1d Use appropriate tools and conventional techniques to solve problems about the natural world, including: measuring, observing, describing. Standard 1, S3.2b Identify sources of error and the limitations of data collected. Standard 1, S3.2c Evaluate the original hypothesis in light of the data. Standard 6, 2.2 Use models to study processes that cannot be studied directly (e.g., when the real process is too slow, too fast, or too dangerous for direct observation). |
1.1i The tilt of the Earth’s axis of rotation and the revolution of Earth around the sun cause seasons on Earth. The length of daylight varies depending on latitude and season. 4.1a The sun is a major source of energy for Earth. Other sources include nuclear and geothermal energy. 4.1d Different forms of energy include heat, light, electrical, mechanical, sound, nuclear, and chemical. Energy is transformed in many ways. 4.4b Light passes through some materials, sometimes refracting in the process. Materials absorb and reflect light, and may transmit light. 4.4e Electrical circuits provide a means of transferring energy. |