Physics 122 Week 1
Thermometers
Thermometers
We have a multitude of thermometers for you to use with your students. (Use a heat lamp or hair dryer to increase temperature)
Constant-Volume Thermometer (Gas), Alcohol Thermometer (Liquid), Galileo's Thermometer (Bouyancy), Bi-metallic Dial Thermometer (Solid), Thermocouple and Galvonometer (Electricity), Liquid Crystal Heat Strips (Thermochromic Liquid), Thermister (Electricity), Black and Decker IR Thermometer (EM Radiation)
Thermodynamic Engines
Drinking Birds
Many people are familiar with these classic desk toys, and they are a great tool to help discuss how thermodynamic processes can drive motion. Make sure that the bird's head is thoroughly saturated, and try not to bend the aluminum supports.
Stirling Engine
This is a true heat engine, driven solely by a temperature differential. It works on a fairly small temperature difference, but by using the coffee heater and an ice cube to help it start you can engage it quickly.
Steam Engine
This compact steam engine is an exciting and engaging demonstration for any classroom. Once students see how thermodynamic processes are used to spin the fly wheel, you can extrapolate this to most power plants and generators.
Thermoelectric Fan
Another example of a true heat engine, this is driven solely by temperature difference. The fan requires a noticeable temperature difference and may need a small nudge. Show students that the fans spin the opposite direction by placing a second fan's legs in opposite temperatures.
Crook's Radiometer
The vanes on the radiometer are colored differently on each side. The black side will heat up more rapidly than the white side causing the vane to spin. See if your students can explain why the vane rotates knowing that it is not an example of the photoelectric effect.
Applying Thermodynamics
Adiabatic Cloud Creation
Show your students how adiabatic processes cause a quick change in temperature by creating a cloud right in front of their eyes! Make sure you have a little bit of water in the flask before inserting the match, and Do Not Use Alcohol!
Work and the "PV" Diagram
Using this simple piston you can provide a concrete example of what happens during various stages of the work cycle on a pressure vs volume graph. Make sure to press down firmly on the white clamp, or your system won't be isolated!