Elenco Deluxe Solar Educational Kit - Manual

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POWERED BY THE SUN ……
Congratulations, you have just purchased a very unique solar powered model. In the age of
rising energy costs, the idea of a free and virtually limitless energy source seems too good to
be true. For years scientists have experimented with various methods of capturing the abundant
energy radiated from our sun. Today, although far from perfected, solar technology has been
advanced to a point where we have learned how to harness and utilize the sun’s power. Time,
research and money will bring to the market place new products that will be energy savers
needed by the entire world. Your Solar model is designed to demonstrate the potential of solar
energy. We hope that you will enjoy and educate others regarding this energy source of the
future.
SPACE AGE TECHNOLOGY
Your Solar model is powered by means of a tiny disc which actually converts light into
electricity. This disc, more commonly referred to as a photovoltaic (photo meaning light and
voltaic meaning producing electricity) or solar cell, is the result of the extensive research and
development which went into the space program. Scientists originally developed photovoltaic
cells as a means of recharging batteries and powering various systems contained in spacecraft.
These tiny cells have contributed greatly to the success of the space program.
Research and development of solar cells increased on a fairly large scale. Cost was not the
big factor weight was the big factor, even the critical factor. Every additional ounce put into
orbit had to be carefully considered. The efficiency of solar cells increased and manufacturing
techniques improved. Solar cells become lighter and less expensive. In many cases, batteries
could be eliminated completely and solar cells used to supply all the electrical power required
to operate the equipment aboard satellites. This research has helped to open the door to the
unlimited potential for applying solar technology to industry and to our private lives.
CARE AND MAINTENANCE OF SOLAR CELLS
Though it may be hard to believe, these lightweight solar cells never wear out or require any
maintenance. Do not drop or abuse the solar cell or solar cell module, as the material it is made
from is similar to glass and will break. We are not responsible for solar cells which are damaged
due to mishandling. The motor provided with your Solar model requires no maintenance and
its operation should exceed the models lifetime.
To clean, a simple blowing with your breath removes dust and most foreign objects. We
recommend wiping with a soft cloth and glass cleaner.
HOW DO SOLAR CELLS WORK?
Most of the solar cells in volume production today are made with silicon. This plentiful natural
resource makes up more than one fourth of the earth’s crust and is the chief component of
ordinary sand. The silicon used in the production of solar cells must be purified to a very high
degree. A large part of the cost of solar cell production results from the painstaking task of
removing all but the slightest traces of impurities in order to produce the highest quality silicon.
To make the solar cell which powers your Solar model, we start with a thin disc of almost
pure silicon crystal. When the silicon crystal is being formed, a small amount of boron is added.
The boron gives the crystal structure a unique characteristic. It actually has a positive electrical
charge. Since this part of the solar cell has a positive charge it is referred to as “P” type silicon
and it forms the base of the cell.
Next, a very thin layer of silicon crystal is formed over the disc of “P” type silicon. However,
instead of adding boron, this time a small amount of phosphorous is added to the mixture. The
phosphorous provides a negative charge and thus is referred to as “N” type silicon.