If I was performing this experiment with my students I would have them research properties of their materials first so that they would have insight on what makes a good insulator. Also I would have them study hot verses cold water and extend the length of time being studied.
Tuesday, May 31, 2011
HOUSEHOLD INSULATORS
When completing my experiment for this week, we were to chose four insulators and predict which insulator would do it's job the best by providing the most insulation. I chose aluminium foil, parchment paper, cloth and a paper towel. I predicted that the aluminum would provide the most insulation because of it's properties consisting of medals. Medals are a good conductor of heat and so naturally this made the most since to me. So after thirty minutes I measured the temperatures and to my surprise all of the water's temperatures were within one degree of each other.
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I completed the same experiment, but chose different insulators. I used foil, paper towel, plastic wrap, and newspaper. I too expected the foil to be the best insulator. I was surprised that the temperatures of the water were so close as well. Did you use hot tap water or did you heat up the water another way before conducting the experiment?
ReplyDeleteYour last line about having students study hot versus cold water made me think it might be interesting to have students repeat this experiment using cold water to see if the insulators work as well keeping cold water cold.
ReplyDeleteParchment paper is a great idea. I love reading about how everyone used such different products. I agree with mrtjsmom, the cold vs hot would seem like a fun extension of the lesson.
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