#  >> K-12 >> K-12 Basics

How to Make a Solar Light System

Constructing a solar light system is an innovative science project that teaches students about energy conservation, renewable energy sources, the importance of identifying new power resources and scientific ethics. Solar light systems do no require a tremendous amount of skill or knowledge and represent only a small cost investment. Students can use a solar light system in a science fair project or to satisfy an assignment on environmentally-conscious energy production. They are also useful in a variety of at-home applications including night lights or reading lamps.

Things You'll Need

  • Red and black insulated wire
  • Pocket knife
  • Solar cell
  • Crocodile clips
  • LED light
  • Dark plastic tray
  • Photoresistor
  • AA nicad battery
  • Control board
  • Clear plastic box
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Peel back 1 inch of insulation from both ends of each wire using a pocket knife. Connect the red and black wire to the solar cell with crocodile clips.

    • 2

      Turn the plastic tray upside down and cut two small holes near the center of the bottom side. Set the panel on the bottom side of the tray and thread the wires through.

    • 3

      Push the photoresistor spokes through the bottom of the plastic tray near one of the solar panel edges.

    • 4

      Connect the wires from the solar panel to the control board and connect the control board to the battery and LED light. Set the light, battery and control board under the tray so they are concealed from view.

    • 5

      Place the clear plastic cover on the solar panel and set the apparatus outside in a well-lit area for a minimum of eight hours to give the battery plenty of time to charge.

    • 6

      Bring the apparatus into a dark room and observe the light given off by the system.

Learnify Hub © www.0685.com All Rights Reserved