Senior Theses
Publication Date
5-25-2017
Document Type
Thesis (Open Access)
Degree Name
Bachelor of Science in Physics
Department
Physics
Faculty Advisor(s)
Tianbao Xie (Thesis Advisor) William Mackie & Joelle Murray (Committee Members)
Subject Categories
Automotive Engineering | Energy Systems | Engineering Physics | Materials Science and Engineering | Mechanical Engineering | Physics | Power and Energy | Semiconductor and Optical Materials
Abstract
A solar cell powered go-kart has been built and tested. The result shows using solar energy alone cannot meet the requirement of running a regular passenger car. This is due to the limited surface area of the passenger car. This thesis also discusses the operating principles of solar panels, the physics of P type and N type semiconductors, and the formation of the PN junction, as well as the solar current. Modifications of an existing go-kart are described in detail in this thesis. Suggestions for making green vehicles are discussed as well.
Recommended Citation
Adams, Mason C., "Are Solar Panels a Viable Power Source for a Green Energy Vehicle?" (2017). Senior Theses. 27.
https://digitalcommons.linfield.edu/physstud_theses/27
Included in
Automotive Engineering Commons, Energy Systems Commons, Engineering Physics Commons, Power and Energy Commons, Semiconductor and Optical Materials Commons
