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The Question:
How is the temperature of a car interior a model for the greenhouse effect?
Variables:
Identify the type of data you will collect to support your hypothesis and state the manipulated, responding and controlled variables in this investigation.
Materials:
- temperature sensor
- mobile data logger, such as an Xplorer
- vehicle interior
Procedure:
Step 1:
Configure your remote data collection device to collect data at about one sample every 5 seconds. If you are using an Xplorer, it will look like this:
On an Xplorer as pictured above, pressing the bottom right button allows you to access the sample rate settings. Then press the top left button to select the rate, the "+" or "-" to change the rate. Press the check mark key when you have the sample setting rate you desire.
Step 2:
Connect the temperature sensor to your Xplorer, it should look something like this:
Step 3:
Data collection:
Take the Xplorer outside. Record the temperature in the shade and sun, in the wind if there is any, etc. Record the outside temperature for about 5 minutes.
Place the Xplorer and temperature sensor in the car to which you have access. Make sure the windows are up. If there is direct sunlight, place the sensor in it, but place the Xplorer in the shade.
Close the door and leave the equipment in the car for about 30 to 40 minutes.
Retrieve the equipment from the car. Allow the interface box and sensor to record the temperature in the shade and sun, in the wind if there is any, etc. Record the outside temperature again, for about 5 minutes.
Step 4:
When you get back to science class, use the USB cable to plug the Xplorer into the computer. Download the data into the computer and it will show up on a graph such as the following:
Analyzing and Interpreting:
When you are ready to analyze your temperature data, re-scale the data (top left button on the above graph). Use the Smart Cursor or Smart Tool and Magnifier tools to examine areas of interest. Print out your graph if you wish.
| 1. |
What was the difference (if any) in temperature between readings taken in the sun and in the shade? Explain any difference. |
| 2. |
What was the difference (if any) in temperature between readings taken inside and outside the vehicle? Explain any difference. |
| 3. |
You have probably heard how unsafe it is to leave pets or children in a car on a warm day. Why do you think this is so? |
Forming Conclusions:
| 4. |
Based on the data you have collected, write a summary statement for the following question:
How is the temperature of a car interior a model for the greenhouse effect? |
Extending:
| 5. |
It is sometimes noted that certain colours and surfaces insides of vehicles absorb more heat in the direct sun than other colours and surfaces. Design an experiment to test this - and consider how your results might serve as a model for how different colours and surfaces on Earth absorb heat differently. |
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