Maximum Velocity

The maximum velocity that a solar-powered car can achieve (v) is related to number of solar cells on it (n) by this equation:

Velocity Equation

Subject: Algebra
Topics: Patterns, Relations and Functions
Grades: 6 - 12
Knowledge and Skills:
- Can plot a point in a two-dimensional coordinate system, given the coordinates, or determine the coordinates of a given point
- Can extrapolate a graph when a pattern exists

Download Teacher Guide: Maximum Velocity (PDF)
Download Student Activity: Maximum Velocity (PDF)

Algebra in the Real World Movie:

Solar Powered CarsSolar Powered Cars

Using the energy it takes to run a hair dryer, this solar-powered car travels 200 miles at speeds of 50 to 65 mph without a drop of gas. Go behind the scenes and meet the team of students who built it.
Running time 3:35 minutes.

Watch the Movie