Following detailed directions, teams collect the voltage and current outputs of a photovoltaic cell by adjusting the resistance. Using the collected data, they determine the highest power output. Implications for weather and a large field of panels are part of the assessment plan.

Concepts

ohm's law, electrical energy, resistance, solar energy, solar panels, voltage, electric currents, technology resources

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Instructional Ideas

• Have the class solve Ohm's Law and the electrical power equation for the different variables in each
• Implement the activity during or after the Maximum presentation

Classroom Considerations

• May require more time if you are using the one-multimeter setup
• Group size is three so that all group members can actively participate in the process

Pros

• Provides two different setups depending upon number of multimeters available
• Includes very specific steps on how to do the activity

Cons

• Answers are not visible on the pdf version of the answer sheet
• Materials needed can be expensive

Common Core

HSF-IF.B.4 HSS-ID.B.6.a MP4