Module 2 · Spring growing, garden systems, and food skills
Build a Renewable-Energy Test Bench
Adult extension of: Future Plant Technology / How Do We Power the Future?
Adults build and compare battery, solar, and produce-cell circuits, measure their output, and explain why some sources can demonstrate electricity without reliably powering a motor.
01 · Learning
Objectives
- Assemble a simple low-voltage circuit safely.
- Compare fan response and voltage across several energy sources.
- Revise a design based on measured results rather than prediction alone.
02 · Preparation
Materials
Low-voltage fan kit; battery holder; small solar panel; flashlight and shade card; lemons, potatoes, or grapefruit; copper and galvanized electrodes; insulated leads; multimeter; goggles; prediction and data sheets.
03 · Practice
Adult project
- 1
Identify the source, conductor, load, switch, and measurement tool.
- 2
Build and confirm the fan circuit with the intended battery supply.
- 3
Connect the solar panel and compare bright-light and shade performance.
- 4
Build produce cells, measure voltage, and test series connections.
- 5
Compare measured output with whether the fan actually turns.
- 6
Revise one connection or source arrangement and explain the result.
Practical and therapeutic connection
Why this work matters
The lab supports troubleshooting, evidence-based claims, electrical basics, renewable-energy awareness, and collaborative technical roles.