Experiment 1: Comparing Heating Rates
Materials: Two identical blocks of material (e.g., metal like copper and wood), a thermometer, a heat source (e.g., a Bunsen burner or a lamp), a ruler, and a timer.
Procedure:
- Measure the length of each block.
- Place one block at each end of the heat source.
- At a set time interval (e.g., every 30 seconds), measure the temperature of the block using the thermometer. Record the temperature at each time interval.
- Repeat the experiment multiple times to obtain consistent results.
Measurements: Temperature (in °C) recorded at regular time intervals.
Fairness: Ensure both blocks are the same size and shape. Maintain a consistent distance between the heat source and the blocks. Use the same heat source and the same starting temperature for both blocks. Shield the blocks from drafts.
Analysis: Plot a graph of temperature vs. time for each material. The material with the steeper temperature increase is the better thermal conductor. The material with the slower temperature increase is the better thermal insulator.
Experiment 2: Heat Transfer Through a Material
Materials: Two identical blocks of material (e.g., metal and wood), a heat source (e.g., a hot plate), a thermometer, a ruler, and a timer.
Procedure:
- Place one block on the hot plate.
- Place the other block some distance away from the hot plate.
- Measure the temperature of the second block at regular time intervals (e.g., every 30 seconds).
- Repeat the experiment multiple times.
Measurements: Temperature (in °C) recorded at regular time intervals.
Fairness: Ensure both blocks are the same size and shape. Maintain a consistent distance between the hot plate and the blocks. Use the same heat source and the same starting temperature. Shield the blocks from drafts.
Analysis: Plot a graph of temperature vs. time for each material. The material with the steeper temperature increase is the better thermal conductor. The material with the slower temperature increase is the better thermal insulator.