Growing UP

Growing UP

The SunSeeker 2000
Lesson: 1.8
Level:
Advanced
Station: Seed Starting
Format: Class Discussion
Rating:
Advanced Lesson 1.8 Growing Up

Lesson Overview

Man has attempted to mimic nature for generations. Technology has progressed to a point where mimicking has become harnessing. In this lesson, students will explore the possibilities of a hybrid solar powered system that integrates technology and nature to harvest the sun's energy.

Teach the Teacher

Method

As plants grow, their leaves and root systems mature to adequately provide for the ever-increasing energy needs of the plant as a whole. Leaves grow bigger and roots reach further to get the job done.

What if alternative energy systems – like solar panels – could be designed in a similar way? Imagine a solar power system that could automatically scale to meet the needs of the Lab.

Do you think organic solar panels are possible? If so, what might that system look like? How would it function? Would the system be some sort of hybrid, leveraging both organic and inorganic components to harvest energy? What would it mean for our society if the energy that plants collected from the sun could be harvested for our energy use as well?

Related Lessons

Now that you’ve completed the Advanced Lesson, just remember that you can always revisit the Beginner and Intermeidate Lessons as needed.

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