Observing Convection 2

Observing Convection ||

Aim: To observe convection in a gas.

Equipment: Scissors, paper spiral pattern, string, source of heat (boiling water, radiator, etc)

Method:
1. Cut out the spiral pattern below, carefully following the dashed line.
2. Tie a length of cotton through the hole on the top of the spiral.
3. Hold the spiral 30-40 cm above a heat source such as a radiator
4. Observe.

Observations:
After a few seconds it began to spin around as long as you kept it still moving it to much would cause it to stop spinning.

Explanation:
The air above the Bunsen burner will heat up and spread out causing the air to get less dense and rises causing the spiral to turn.