Solar Convection

• In this experiment, students will observe the process of convection using colored water of different temperatures.
• Students will learn how hot and cold particles have different densities, what happens as hot and cold particles mingle with each other, and how this process is related to the Sun.

Positives

• The directions are written in such a way that students can easily perform this experiment at home with an adult or in the classroom with little guidance.
• This experiment is a hands-on and engaging way to learn about convection in general, but also how it applies to the Sun.

Additional Prerequisites

• The link to download the DIY Sun Science app is broken, but the app can be found in the app store on your device.
• Some students may need the terms dense, float, sink, transfer, core, plasma, solar, granules, and others defined prior to performing the experiment.
• Students should understand that the Sun is a star made of hot plasma.

Differentiation

• Students can keep a scientist journal and use it to draw pictures and record observations about what happens to the water.
• In classrooms where there is not 1:1 technology, the teacher can record a video for the students to look back on after they perform the experiment, or the procedures can be printed out.
• Older students can discuss how convection works to heat the atmosphere and the effect that greenhouse gases have on that process.
• To take this experiment outside, consider using the energy from the sun to warm up the red water and keep the blue water in the shade.
  

This resource addresses the listed standards. To fully meet standards, search for more related resources.