Atmosphere: Greenhouse Effect

Record the temperature effect of a greenhouse gas (carbon dioxide) on a simulated atmosphere and compare this data against an atmosphere lacking carbon dioxide.

Greenhouse Effect

The heating and cooling of the "greenhouse" gas chamber and the control chamber illustrates the greenhouse gas effect on temperature. Enlarge graph.


Greenhouse Effect

Lab Summary:

In this exploration, students will use both a temperature sensor and a carbon dioxide sensor to measure the effect of a greenhouse gas on the temperature of a simulated atmosphere.

This activity will help students understand that greenhouse gases raise global atmospheric temperatures, thus warming our planet to a level that can support life. In addition, students will consider how human influences are altering this balance.

Download free labs:

(student versions)

Computer-based lab (PDF, 810 KB)

Xplorer GLX-based lab (PDF, 60 KB)

Method:

Use a Temperature Sensor and Carbon Dioxide Sensor, to record temperature differences between a carbon dioxide-induced atmosphere and an environment lacking this greenhouse gas.

Here's What You Need:

Required for computer-based lab:

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

Probeware

Other Materials

  • Incandescent Light Source, 100-W
  • Beaker, 1-L
  • Wash Bottle Top
  • Vinyl Tubing, 0.5 m of 1/8"
  • Stopper, 1-hole (for flask)
  • Erlenmeyer Flask, 125-mL
  • Styrofoam® Lid
  • Protective Gear
  • Black construction paper
  • Alka-Seltzer® tablets (6)
  • Vinegar, 50.0 mL

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