Convection: Convection Tube

PIRA Class: 4B20.10

Purpose: 

The natural convection of fluid shown here results from the effect of buoyancy. At the burner’s flame, the water is heated and therefore becomes less dense. Consequently, the warmed water rises and cooler water circulates behind it towards the flame. Both liquids and gasses transmit heat mainly by convection. Another vivid example of convection shows that you can hold your fingers beside a candle’s flame without harm, but not above the flame. Be careful should you try to verify this at home.

Description:
Fill the convection tube with water, leaving room at the top for the dye/ink. Use the Bunsen burner/blow torch at the corner of the convection tube, being careful not to place it too close to the tube and risk melting the apparatus.

Equipment:
Convection tube, food coloring or ink, Bunsen burner or blow torch

Web Simulation:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hHXs6S8u6ok

Location:
Shelf *, chemical cabinet (food coloring)