There is a specific zone, or distance from a star, that a planet must be in order to have water in a liquid form. The activity demonstrates how flux density depends on its distance from the source. A photovoltaic cell gets power to drive a motor if it's within the proper zone, thus depicting the engine of life within a planetary system.

 

Concepts

the sun, the earth, solar radiation, stars, planets, orbiting, exoplanets, solar energy, photovoltaic cells

Show More Show Less

Additional Tags

science

Show More Show Less

Instructional Ideas

• Research the number of planets in a habitable zone within Kepler: https://www.nasa.gov/ames/kepler/a-keplers-dozen-small-habitable-zone-planets

Classroom Considerations

• Determine the number of groups based on the availability of equipment
• Before the experiment, verify the photovoltaic cell generates enough power for the motor being used

Pros

• Includes a photo of how to properly set up the materials for success with the experiment
• Offers extension ideas for older or more advanced scholars

Cons

• None

Common Core

RST.6-8.3 RST.9-10.3 RST.11-12.3