Episode 7 — Heat Transfer

Investigating Radiation

Learners will be able to:

• Formulate an investigative question and a testable hypothesis about whether different coloured surfaces absorb radiant heat energy differently. • Identify the independent variable, dependent variable and controlled variables in an investigation of radiation absorption using black, white and foil surfaces. • Describe a method for investigating radiant heat absorption using coloured bags or containers, thermometers (or ice blocks) and sunlight. • Predict and explain that dark/matte surfaces absorb more radiation and heat up more, while shiny/light surfaces reflect radiation and stay cooler. • Draw a conclusion linking surface colour and texture to the rate of radiant heat absorption.