Make a Solar Oven

The Sun is the largest source of energy for the Earth. More solar energy hits the planet in one day than could be used in 27 years. In areas without electricity solar ovens could be a great option to cook food. Solar ovens are low cost, reduce carbon emissions and can reach temperatures between 120^◦C and 175^◦C.

To make your model solar oven, the first thing that you need to do is get your shallow cardboard box and draw a square on the top of your box about 4cm away from the edge. With the front of the box facing you, cut along 3 sides of the square, leaving the last edge as a hinge.

Cover the inside of the cardboard box and the inside of the cardboard flap with silver foil 

Put a piece of black paper on the bottom of the box, and cover the hole in the top of the box with cling film. Make sure that you tape the cling film in place. You may need some help with this part!

Your solar oven is now ready. You can use your wooden skewer to prop the lid open. 

Why not try putting something inside and seeing what happens...

You could start with something that melts easily like cheese or chocolate as your solar oven will take longer to heat things up than a regular oven.

The video tutorial for this activity is available on the Surrey Libraries Facebook Page or the Surrey Libraries YouTube Channel