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Lab #22.5 Heat: Chapter 22  Canned Heat: Heating Up

Purpose
In this experiment, you will compare the ability of different surfaces to absorb thermal radiation.

Discussion
Does the color of a surface make a difference in how well it absorbs thermal radiation? If so, how? The answer to these questions could help you decide what to wear on a hot, sunny day and what color to paint your house if you live in a hot, sunny climate. In this experiment, we will compare the thermal absorption ability of three surfaces: silver, black, and white. We’ll do this by filling cans with these surfaces with water, then exposing the cans to heat lamps. We’ll measure the temperature of the water in each of the cans while they’re being exposed to the heat and see if there’s a difference in the rate at which the temperatures increase.

Required Equipment

Heat Lamp and Base, Radiation Cans (Silver, Black, White), Thermometer, Cold Water, Paper Towel, Graph Paper.

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Student Worksheet   Teacher Notes

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   Heat Lamp and Base Product Bot
  
Radiation Cans     PX-2084    
 
 
Just add water and a thermometer or temperature sensor to each of these three cans, place in the sun (or near a bright light bulb), and watch the temperature rise.  More Info
           
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Student Thermometer     68-6202    
 
 
A general purpose red alcohol thermometer with anti-roll sleeve. -20 to +110C (1 deg division), 305mm length.  More Info
           
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The "cold water" used in this experiment is just "tap water". The "paper towels" required for this lab are any paper towels that you may already have. The "graph paper" required for this lab is readily available at your office or school supply store. Each lab would require one sheet.