Atmosphere: Understanding Seasons

Determine the relationship between the angle of incoming light and the rate of change of temperature of the surface that absorbs the light.

Understanding Seasons

Graph showing temperature curves for heat source (light) at 30, 60 and 90 degrees angles. Inquiry question: How does this data relate to global temperature differences? Enlarge graph.

Lab Summary:

In this activity, students will use a temperature sensor to measure the change in temperature of a model of Earth's surface when the model is set up at three different angles relative to a light source (e.g., the Sun or a bright light).

For example, they will measure the change in temperature of the model of Earth's surface when the rays of light from the Sun (or other light source) strike the surface at an angle of 90° to the surface. They will make the same type of measurement for two other angles: 60° and 30°.

They will compare the change of temperature for all three angles and determine the relationship between the change in temperature and the angle at which the radiation arrives at the surface.

Download free labs:

(student versions)

Computer-based lab (PDF, 645 KB)

Xplorer GLX-based lab (PDF, 272 KB)

Method:

Use a Temperature Sensor, to measure the change in temperature of the surface of a model of Earth when the surface is exposed to sunlight or bright light from a lamp.

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

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