Atmosphere: Convection, Conduction and Radiation

Heat transfer is an important concept for both large and small scales. In this experiment students measure small-scale heat transfer and use it as a model for global scales.

Lab Summary:

In this activity, students will use Temperature Sensors to measure the temperature change that is due to three methods of energy transfer: convection, conduction, and radiation.

For convection, they will measure the temperature at two positions in a column of water as the water is warmed from below.

For conduction, they will measure the temperature at one end of two cylinders of different types of metals as the cylinders are warmed at the other end.

For radiation, they will measure the change in temperature of water in two metal cans with different surface colors as a lamp heats the water in the cans.

This activity has three parts for data recording and analysis.

Download free labs:

(student versions)

Xplorer GLX-based lab - Part 1 (PDF, 120 KB)

Xplorer GLX-based lab - Part 2 (PDF, 76 KB)

Xplorer GLX-based lab - Part 3 (PDF, 40 KB)

Computer-based lab - Part 1 (PDF, 1008 KB)

Computer-based lab - Part 2 (PDF, 740 KB)

Computer-based lab - Part 3 (PDF, 716 KB)

Method:

Use Temperature Sensors to measure the temperature change that is due to three methods of energy transfer: convection, conduction, and radiation.

Here's What You Need:

Required for Xplorer GLX-based labs. Parts 1, 2, and 3:

(See lab download for computer-based lab requirements, which may differ)

Probeware

• PASPORT Temperature Sensor (requires 2) (PS-2125)
• Xplorer GLX Graphing Datalogger (PS-2002)
  (or alternate PASPORT interface -- see other options)

Other Materials

• Radiation Cans (TD-8570A)
• Large Base & Support Rod (ME-9355)
• Buret/Utility Clamp (SE-9446)
• Density Set (ME-8569)
• Graduated cylinder, 100 ml
• Large straight-sided clear container (eg, empty aquarium)
• Plastic bag, 1 L
• Incandescent light source, 150 W
• Insulated pads (2)
• String
• Tape
• Weight
• White paper
• Food coloring
• Candle
• Ice cubes
• Water
• Protective gear

Lab Manual:

The computer-based activity is included in Explorations in Earth and Environmental Science (PS-2809). The Xplorer GLX-based lab is included in Earth and Environmental Science with the Xplorer GLX (PS-2821A). Both manuals are complete with Teacher Information pages, student instructions and handouts, and sample data.

For your convenience, we offer bundles which provide the probeware for the activities in the manual. For more, please see:
Computer-based Earth and Environmental Science Lab Manual and Bundles
Xplorer GLX-based Earth and Environmental Science Lab Manual and Bundles