Different materials and shapes transfer heat at different rates. When it is cold, we enclose ourselves in insulating materials that slow down this transfer of heat. Materials Bulb thermometer with protective backing for each student, or digital thermometer, Microcomputer-based Lab temperature probe, or Postcard Thermometer. What Students Do Students are introduced to the human body as a heat source and then read the Student Activity involving the investigation and design of gloves. Students first predict and conduct experiments with a thermometer or other temperature-sensing device to determine temperature differences of various parts of their hands.
Students then design and test a prototype using insulating materials and vinyl gloves.
Finally, students either design an improved glove or do a product camparison of commercially available gloves. The ACME Energy Company's Product Division has been given the task of designing a warm winter glove using scrap fabrics from the Materials Division. Keep heating and cooling in mind as you and your team collect data, plan and conduct experiments, and then design a glove for mass marketing. Be prepared to defend your design to your Division Supervisor. Trace an outline of your hand on two sheets of paper.