PIRA 4B20.10 Convection: Convection Tube with Colored Water
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Photo of University of Texas at Austin's Demonstration
Instructions / Notes:
- Note: Do not place tube over bunsen without water! If you do on accident, let it cool down completely before adding water. It WILL crack if you don't.
- A circle made with glass tubing is filled to the top with water.
- A gas torch is used below the tubing to heat either the right or left side.
- Convection begins within a few seconds of heating the water within the tube.
- Add a few drops of colored water to the top opening to enable students to see the effect.
Concept Conveyed:
- The water on the side with the gas torch expands and rises as it heats up.
- The water from the other side fills in the space as the hot water rises, resulting in a circular convection pattern.
Demo Staff:
- Water does not come colored. Include small beaker with water and dye SEPARATELY.
Last Updated 6/24 - University of Texas at Austin Physics Department - All Rights Reserved
