Modeling Air Convection Currents

air convection model

In this lab/demonstration, the teacher will demonstrate how convection currents in the atmosphere occur. This demonstration is very visible and can easily be done without any special equipment except for a hot plate. Students will fill out a science lab sheet that has them hypothesize and then diagram how air currents are moving. As part of the lab, students will get some reinforcement as to what high and low air pressures are and what causes them. Students will also be able to demonstrate their previously gained knowledge of density. This lab sheet comes with the student lab, a youtube link on how to set this lab up, (if you don't have a hot plate or ability to complete the physical part of the lab, you can use the video as a replacement), an answer sheet and teacher instructions, insights, and reflections into this lab.

Here is a Youtube video showing the model. It's easy to make. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZIMnZwR4aWE

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