Photovoltaic cell demonstration video

What do solar cells do?

This is a simple explanation of what solar cells do and how they may be used to provide energy in the future. This short animated video from TVNZ demystifies some of the technical language. What are solar cells? Solar cells convert light from the sun directly into electricity. Sunlight is made up of tiny packets of energy called photons.

What activities can I do with a solar schoolhouse solar cell classroom set?

Activities using the Solar Schoolhouse Solar Cell Classroom Set range from qualitative to quantitative experiences. Solar cells can be used with kindergarten classes to experience the photovoltaic effect (sunlight makes the motor spin) or with colleges and trade schools to plot the IV curves of solar modules.

How do solar cells convert light into electricity?

Solar cells convert light from the sun directly into electricity. Sunlight is made up of tiny packets of energy called photons. When sunlight hits a solar cell, the photons knock free minute particles called electrons contained inside. As the electrons begin to move about they are 'routed' into a current.

Can solar cells make us less dependent on fossil fuels?

This is electricity – the movement of electrons along a path. Solar cells – also known as photovoltaic cells – harness sunlight to create electricity in a clean, green, renewable way. Developing this technology could make us less dependent on fossil fuels.

Can solar cells be used in school?

Solar cells can be used with kindergarten classes to experience the photovoltaic effect (sunlight makes the motor spin) or with colleges and trade schools to plot the IV curves of solar modules. Students can build simple circuits to power a variety of electrical loads.

Are solar cells a good way to learn electrical circuits?

Solar Cells are a fun way to learn about basic electrical circuits. One can engage students in a variety of activities in a Qualitative manner using observation as the method of assessment.