Solar Oven – Cooking with the Power of the Sun

Intro
This simple solar oven shows how sunlight can be converted to heat to warm or melt small food items. It’s an easy, eco-friendly school project that demonstrates the greenhouse effect and renewable energy.

Materials

• 1 shoebox with lid
• Aluminum foil
• Black chart paper or black paint
• Clear plastic wrap (or transparent sheet)
• Tape / glue / scissors
• Ruler and cutter
• Small stick or pencil (to prop the flap)
• Small food sample (chocolate, marshmallow, or biscuit)

Construction Steps

1. Line the inside of the shoebox with black paper (or paint it black).
2. Cut a flap in the lid leaving one side attached. Cover the inside of the flap with aluminum foil (shiny side out).
3. Cover the shoebox opening (under the flap) with clear plastic wrap to form a transparent window. Tape securely.
4. Line other inside walls with aluminum foil to reflect light into the box.
5. Prop the foil-covered flap so it reflects sunlight into the box.
6. Place your food sample inside the box, position the oven in direct sun (best between 10 AM–2 PM), and observe for 15–30 minutes.

Scientific Principle

Sunlight passes through the clear cover and is absorbed by the black interior. The black surface converts light to heat, and the trapped air under the plastic wrap raises the temperature (greenhouse effect). The reflective foil increases the amount of sunlight entering the oven.

Observations

Food items like chocolate or marshmallows will warm or melt within 15–30 minutes in bright sunlight. Temperature depends on sunlight intensity and how well you seal the window.

Conclusion

A simple solar oven demonstrates how solar energy can be used for heating/cooking. It’s an inexpensive and eco-friendly idea to show renewable energy in action.

Tips

• Use multiple layers of plastic wrap for a better seal.
• Angle the flap so it reflects maximum sunlight into the box.
• Test on a sunny day for best results.

Labels: science, school project, solar energy, renewable energy