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Sustainability Lesson Clearinghouse
Be “Sun-sible” About Heating Water
Lesson Description:
In this inquiry-based lesson, students will work in groups to build a solar water heater and will investigate which colors absorb more radiant heat and transmit it to the water, and study the relationship between insulation and heat loss. Teacher background, assessment questions, and extensions are provided. The expected out come in this activity is for students to understand how solar energy can reduce the hot water energy bill.
The student will do the following:
In this inquiry-based lesson, students will work in groups to build a solar water heater and will investigate which colors absorb more radiant heat and transmit it to the water, and study the relationship between insulation and heat loss. Teacher background, assessment questions, and extensions are provided. The expected out come in this activity is for students to understand how solar energy can reduce the hot water energy bill.
The student will do the following:
- Construct a simple solar water heater.
- Investigate color and heat.
- Investigate insulation and heat.
Lesson Type:
- Group Work
- Project
Sustainability Topic:
- Energy
- Water
GEF Program Category:
- Sustainable Water Challenge
- Green Energy Challenge
Time Needed:
120 minutes
120 minutes
Materials Needed:
- Juice cans
- Paint (white, black, green, red)
- Very hot water
- Food colors
- Ice cubes
- Thermometers
- See attached sheet for complete list
Submitted By:
Green Education Foundation (GEF) on Behalf of Tennessee Valley Authority
Green Education Foundation (GEF) on Behalf of Tennessee Valley Authority
School or Group:
Tennessee Valley Authority
Tennessee Valley Authority
Contact Email:
service@greeneducationfoundation.org
service@greeneducationfoundation.org
