Determining Heat Gain and Loss
In this activity, you’ll heat an object in hot water and then transfer it to cool water. The object
will become cooler, and the cool water will become warmer. Based on the temperature
ch
...
Determining Heat Gain and Loss
In this activity, you’ll heat an object in hot water and then transfer it to cool water. The object
will become cooler, and the cool water will become warmer. Based on the temperature
changes, you’ll calculate and compare the heat lost by the object and the heat gained by the
water. To begin, choose an object (or objects) made of a known material and that can be
immersed in water without causing damage.
Before you begin this task, read these lab safety guidelines . If you’re using an electronic
balance, watch this video about measuring mass .
Estimated time to complete: 1 hour
If you’ve purchased an Edmentum lab kit, remove the electronic balance and thermometer
from the kit. These materials are italicized in the following equipment list. Then gather any
additional items shown in the list. If you’re not using an Edmentum lab kit, alternatives are
suggested in parentheses.
You’ll need these materials:
electronic balance (may also use a kitchen scale, readable at least to the nearest gram)
thermometer, readable at least to the nearest degree from 0°C to 100°C (32°F to 212°F)
—readings to the nearest tenth of a degree will produce better results
foam cups (2)
lids to Õt the cups (may use squares of cardboard as lids)
solid object (or group of objects) of a known material that can Õt easily in the cup, ideally
having a total mass of 25 to 60 grams; here are some ideas:
2–5 plastic dominoes, depending on size
5–10 glass marbles, depending on size
10 quarters
tongs
pen or marker
stove, hot plate, or microwave oven
container for heating water (depends on the selected heat source)
Part A
Begin the task by performing these steps. Record your observations in the table provided.
Label the foam cups with the numbers 1 and 2
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