Solar Still Design Challenge

Grade level: 8
Time required: 5-7 class periods
Cost: $0 with recycled materials
MA frameworks: Physical science 4, 8, 9, 10, 15.

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This activity challenges students to design and construct a solar still. The still's purpose is to remove salts from water, rendering the water drinkable. The design challenge builds upon understandings of solar energy and design gained by students who have completed the Solar Cooker Challenge. Issues of solar energy, design, engineering sketching, and phase changes in different chemical compounds (water and salt) are addressed.

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Link here for Solar Still Challenge sheet.

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Link here for an interesting story about the use of solar stills.