Greenhouse effect in a jar
The experiment:
Scientific data show us that in recent years the temperature on our planet is rising at an alarming rate.
This major temperature increase is probably a consequence of the intensification of the greenhouse effect, caused by the increase of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases in our atmosphere.
Let's test this hypothesis with an experiment!
Objective:
The aim of the experiment is to recreate our atmosphere in a jar and test if the presence of large amounts of CO2 raises the temperature.
Materials:
2 glass jar;
1 lamp with an incandescent light bulb;
2 termometers (sensibility 0,1°C);
vinegar;
baking soda;
water.
Methods:
Put the two glass jars under the lamp, so that they receive the same amount of light and heat. The jars and the lamp should not be moved during the experiment.
2. Insert the termometers.
3. Mix in one of the two jars a spoon of baking soda with 20 ml of vinegar.
4. Firmly close the jars
5. Register the initial temperature
6. Turn on the lamp
7. Wait 2 minutes and read the temperature
8. Read the temperature every 2 minutes up to 16 min.
9. Record the data in a table and draw a graph to illustrate the results of the experiment.
Results:
Conclusions:
Our hypothesis was confirmed: in the jar without CO2 - blue line - the temperature rises more slowly than in the second jar - red line - where CO2 is present.
Therefore, if humans continues to produce and release carbon dioxide in the atmosphere, the temperature will continue rising faster than it would have done without the CO2 emissions caused by human activities.
Our thoughts:
Carbon dioxide and the greenhouse effect: a current problem or a key resource?
Carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases capture the sun's heat and prevent it from dissipating. This phenomenon is called the greenhouse effect.
The greenhouse effect has a key role for life on Earth: without it, the average temperature of our planet (which is normally around 15 °C) would drop to -18 °C, making life almost impossible.
Due to human emissions, however, the greenhouse effect is intensifying, causing temperatures to rise too fast.
What can we do to stop or reduce the rise in temperatures?
Investing in renewable energy sources
Reduce fossil fuel emissions
Follow the 4Rs (reduce, reuse, recycle and recover)
Dispose of waste correctly
Opt for sustainable means of transport
For more information visit What can we do?