Science Buddies: "Ask an Expert"

What type of digital thermometer do I need to measure the temperature of the solar cell itself, and if so, where can I find one? Science buddies reads that I need one with probes, but I cannot find one for sale that will measure the temperature of the solar cell. Any help will be great. Thank you

Sciencefairq - I'm not sure which experiment you are working on so I couldn't find the reference to using a "probe" device to measure temperature. Basically, photo-voltaic (PV) cells operate most efficiently at lower temperatures, and decrease their efficiency as temperatures increase. There are two heating issues that affect the junction temperature of the device, first is simply the ambient temperature of the environment, second, depending on the exposure to radiation, the temperature will increase as radiation is absorbed. I would think the best digital thermometer to use would be a non-contact, infra-red device that could be aimed at the cell and not require physical contact. Here is a link to an article that discusses some of the physics of PV efficiency and temperature.

http://homeguides.sfgate.com/effects-te ... 79764.html

Rick Marz

Thank you Mr Marz for your response. Here is the project I am doing - https://www.sciencebuddies.org/science- ... p012.shtml . It is titled A Cool Way to Make Electricity: Solar Cell Power Output vs. Temperature. Can you give me any advise where to purchase the thermometer needed. Thank you so much!

Sciencefairq - The infrared thermometers can be found in many hardware stores, but prices really vary. I just checked a few possibles:

eBay - Many sellers under $10 with free shipping
Harbor Freight - lowest price is $11.99
Home Depot - Lowest price is $29.95

Rick Marz

I ordered an infrared thermometer from amazon and it works great. Thanks for your help