The Ups and Downs of Thermometers

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In this activity, learners examine the parts of a thermometer. After placing a thermometer in hot and cold water, learners look at molecular model animations of the liquid in a thermometer. Learners then draw a model of the molecules of a thermometer after it has been placed in hot and then cold water. This lesson includes an optional activity in which learners make and test their own thermometers.

Quick Guide

Preparation Time:
Under 5 minutes
Learning Time:
45 to 60 minutes
Estimated Materials Cost:
$1 - $5 per group of students
Age Range:
Ages 11 - 14
Resource Types:
Activity, Experiment/Lab Activity, Lesson/Lesson Plan
Language:
English

Materials List (per group of students)

  • Student Thermometer
  • Magnifier
  • Cold water
  • Hot water (about 50 °C)
  • Goggles
  • Test tube, about 20 mL (optional)
  • Isopropyl rubbing alcohol, 91% (optional)
  • Small cup (optional)
  • 2 small disposable water bottles (8 oz. -- optional)
  • Food coloring (optional)
  • Parafilm (optional)
  • Thin transparent straw (Either cut from a dropper or from a Capri Sun® drink -- optional)
  • Hot water (optional)
  • Ice water (optional)

Keywords

Subjects

  • Physical Sciences
    • Heat and Thermodynamics
      • Heat and Temperature
    • Chemistry
    • States of Matter
      • Liquids
    • Structure and Properties of Matter
      • Elementary Particles and Nuclear Physics
  • The Nature of Science
    • The Scientific Process
      • Conducting Investigations
      • Gathering Data
      • Formulating Explanations
      • Communicating Results

Audience

To use this activity, learners need to:

  • see
  • see color
  • read
  • touch

Learning styles supported:

  • Involves hands-on or lab activities

Other

Components that are part of this resource:

Access Rights:

  • Free access

By:

Rights:

  • All rights reserved, American Chemistry Society, 2011