Washer Thermal Energy Lab

Summary

In the washer heat flow lab, the experiment explores the impact of mass on heat flow. Two setups are conducted: one with two and six washers, and another with four washers each. A hot plate heats the washers, and water temperatures are measured before and after immersion. The first experiment uses equal water volumes, while the second varies the water amount. The lab is designed to be simple, engaging for students, and effective in demonstrating the principles of heat transfer.

Takeaways

• 🔬 The lab experiment focuses on observing how mass affects heat flow.
• 🧪 Two separate experiments are conducted: one with two and six washers, and another with four washers in each setup.
• ⚠️ It's advised to use a more durable string for tying washers to avoid untying issues.
• 📏 The washers are spaced out on a pencil to ensure they don't touch the bottom of the beaker.
• 🌡️ A hot plate is used to heat the washers, set at 250 degrees Fahrenheit.
• 📝 The experiment involves labeling the beakers according to the washers' quantity they contain.
• 💧 In the first experiment, equal amounts of water (100 milliliters) are used for both systems.
• 📉 The initial and final temperatures of the water are recorded after placing the washers.
• 🔄 For the second experiment, different amounts of water are used while keeping the number of washers constant.
• 📊 Results are compared to analyze the impact of mass on heat flow in the systems.
• 📚 The lab is designed to be simple to set up and conduct, making it an effective educational tool.

Q & A

What is the main objective of the washer heat flow lab?

The main objective of the washer heat flow lab is to observe how mass affects heat flow.

How many different experiments are set up in the lab?

Two different experiments are set up in the lab.

What is the difference between the two experiments in terms of washers used?

In the first experiment, two and six washers are used, while in the second experiment, four washers are used for both systems.

What type of string is used in the video, and why is it not recommended?

Shiny pink string is used in the video, but it is not recommended because it unties very easily.

What is the recommended alternative to the string used in the video?

A different type of string that is a little more rough is recommended, as it helps the knots stay in place more easily.

How are the washers arranged in the experiment?

The washers are tied to a pencil with a little bit of space in between each washer.

What is the purpose of not letting the washers touch the bottom of the beaker?

The washers are not allowed to touch the bottom of the beaker to prevent tangling when multiple groups are heated at once.

What is the initial temperature of the water in both systems during the first experiment?

The initial temperature of the water in both systems is not specified in the script, but it is measured before placing the washers.

How does the amount of water in the systems differ between the first and second experiments?

In the first experiment, the same amount of water (100 milliliters) is used in each system, while in the second experiment, different amounts of water (50 milliliters and 200 milliliters) are used.

What is the purpose of comparing the final temperatures in the experiments?

The purpose of comparing the final temperatures is to analyze how the mass of the washers affects the heat flow and the temperature change in the water.

Who is the target audience for this lab, and why is it a good choice for them?

The target audience for this lab is students. It is a good choice for them because it is easy to set up and conduct, and it provides a practical way to discuss the concept of how mass affects heat flow.