In the lab we study currents at multiple grade levels. We learn about them as we study heat energy transfer. The key point I try to teach is that heat energy flows from warm to cool and that transfer of energy can create currents. Convection currents are something we experience every day - as part of our weather, or, more close to home, in a pot on our stove. Warm water (or air) rises because it is less dense (the water molecules are farther apart) and cool water (or air) sinks because it is more dense (the water molecules are closer together). This experiment will allow students to easily see the currents which usually are not visible because you can't see temperature variations in a substance. Materials:
Parent Tip: If you do not have the materials for this experiment, try this one here. It shows the same principles. You can do it with just the temperature changes, not the salt. How To Links & Explanation: Here is a link to the instructions, including pictures. There is a great explanation of what is happening here as well. Thank you to the Exploratorium for this activity. Share Your Experience: If you do this experiment feel free to post pictures in the comments section below. Happy Sciencing!
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You Can Continue to Earn the Patches over the SUmmer!
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Every school day I will post a new experiment for you to try at home. Some may be familiar to you - as they are my favorites from class - but most will be experiments I found on the web that have readily available materials. Happy Sciencing! Earn a Patch
Sunol Glen Students - Complete an additional 10 experiments (20 total) from this site and I will send you this patch: Parents - just email me when students have completed a challenge, no proof required. Categories |