Students expand their understanding of the design principles of efficient solar energy systems. To begin, students examine a photograph of a school and suggest the optimal position for a proposed rooftop solar array. Students use their suggestions to identify and explore the three factors that determine the optimal position for a rooftop solar array. After making observations of a school building, students use the three factors to develop recommendations for the optimal position for the rooftop solar array. To conclude the lesson, students identify the optimal position on the school rooftop for a solar PV array.
In an optional extension to the lesson, students design and conduct an experiment using a light intensity probe to determine which factor most affects the efficiency of a PV array. Students use their findings to determine the optimal position on the roof for the solar PV array.
This resource is part of the collection Shining a Light on Solar Energy.
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