Canned Heat

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In this activity, learners explore how light and dark colored objects absorb the Sun's radiations at different rates. Learners place one shiny coffee can and one coffee can painted black, each filled with the same amount of water, in direct sunlight for two hours. Learners measure and compare the temperature of the water before and after the test. Use this demonstration to introduce learners to solar radiation and albedo as well as the importance of summer safety and sun protection.

Quick Guide

Preparation Time:
10 to 30 minutes
Learning Time:
2 to 4 hours
Estimated Materials Cost:
$1 - $5 per group of students
Age Range:
Ages 6 - 14
Resource Types:
Activity, Demonstration, Experiment/Lab Activity, Lesson/Lesson Plan
Language:
English

Materials List (per group of students)

  • Two empty coffee cans (3 lbs size)
  • Thermometer
  • "Flat Black" spray paint

Keywords

Subjects

  • Earth and Space Science
    • Earth Processes
      • Weather and Climate
    • Solar System
      • The Sun
  • Life Sciences
    • Human Body
      • Health and Nutrition
  • Mathematics
    • Data Analysis and Probability
      • Data Analysis
      • Data Collection
    • Measurement
      • Rate
  • Physical Sciences
    • Heat and Thermodynamics
      • Heat and Temperature
      • Heat Transfer
    • Energy
    • Vibration and Waves
      • Light and Optics
    • Light and Optics
      • Reflection and Refraction
      • Sunlight and Color
  • The Nature of Science
    • The Scientific Process
      • Conducting Investigations
      • Gathering Data
      • Formulating Explanations

Informal Categories

  • Nature and Environment
  • Outdoor Activity

Audience

To use this activity, learners need to:

  • see
  • see color
  • read
  • touch

Learning styles supported:

  • Involves hands-on or lab activities

Other

This resource is part of:

Access Rights:

  • Free access

By:

Rights:

  • All rights reserved, National Weather Service,