Heat Energy Experiment
Aim: To measure the heat energy released in a burning fuel.
Diagram:
[IMAGE]
Method:
* The apparatus was set as shown in the diagram.
* 20ml of water were measured.
* The initial temperature of the water was measured as well as the
distance from the tile to the bottom of the test tube.
* The mass of the watch glass with and without the fuel was
measured.
* The fuel was lighted with a lighted splint and left to burn until
it ends.
* The mass of the watch glass was then re-measured.
* The final temperature of the water was recorded.
For safety reasons a heat-proof tile was placed under the watch glass
and goggles were used. The fuel was lighted with a splint and not the
Bunsen burner, and the experiment area was completely clear for space.
For accuracy, the maximum temperature of the water was measured. The
fuel was not left for a long time as the water would evaporate and the
bottom of the test tube was cleaned in order not to interfere with the
heating process.
To make it a fair test, the time taken of different fuels to burn
could be measured. If this happened, the apparatus should be properly
washed, everything re-weighed and re-measured, and the thermometer
left to cool.
Results:
(Averages)
Ethanol
Fire Lighter
Distance from test tube to tile (cm)
12.5 cm
12.5 cm
Initial temperature (ºC)
14.5 ºC
17.5 ºC
Final Temperature (ºC)
28 ºC
42ºC
Temp. Difference (ºC)
13.5 ªC
24.5ºC
Initial Mass (g)
21.92 g
20.74 g
Final Mass (g)
20.5 g
19.35 g
Mass Difference (g)