https://phet.colorado.edu/en/simulations/greenhouse-effect
Lab Overview
Greenhouse Effect
This lab explores the greenhouse effect and how gases in Earth's atmosphere trap heat, influencing global temperatures. Using the PhET Greenhouse Effect simulation, students will examine the role of greenhouse gases, understand their impact on Earth's temperature, and explore factors that contribute to climate change. This interactive lab provides a foundational understanding of how human activities influence the greenhouse effect and its implications for the environment.
Learning Objectives
Aligned with the Victorian Curriculum, students will:
- VCSSU094: Describe the influence of human activity on the Earth's atmosphere and climate.
- VCSSU122: Explain how scientific understanding of climate change informs personal and community decisions.
By the end of this lab, students should be able to:
- Describe the role of greenhouse gases in trapping heat and regulating Earth’s temperature.
- Analyze how increased greenhouse gas levels impact global temperatures.
- Relate human activities to increases in greenhouse gases and discuss the implications for climate change.
ACARA Digital Literacy Capabilities
- Evaluate information: Students assess data from simulations to understand climate impacts.
- Manage content: They learn to handle data storage related to simulation results securely.
Lab Instructions
- Access the Simulation: PhET Greenhouse Effect Simulation.
- Explore Without Greenhouse Gases:
- Set the simulation to show “No Greenhouse Gases.”
- Observe the Earth's surface temperature and how heat energy interacts with the atmosphere.
- Observe the Impact of Greenhouse Gases:
- Add greenhouse gases by switching to “Some Greenhouse Gases” and then “Lots of Greenhouse Gases.”
- Observe how additional gases affect the amount of heat trapped in the atmosphere.
- Experiment with Sunlight Intensity:
- Adjust the sunlight intensity to explore its effect on temperature in combination with varying levels of greenhouse gases.
- Record observations about how increased sunlight and greenhouse gas levels contribute to global warming.
Assessment Questions
- Explain how greenhouse gases trap heat in Earth’s atmosphere.
- What happens to Earth’s temperature as the concentration of greenhouse gases increases?
- Describe how human activities contribute to the greenhouse effect.
- How might changes in Earth’s temperature affect ecosystems and human populations?
Teacher Notes
Integrating with Lessons:
- This lab aligns with discussions on climate change, allowing students to visualize the effects of greenhouse gases and human activities.
- Encourage students to consider current events related to climate policy and renewable energy as they explore the lab.
Common Misconceptions:
- Some students may think greenhouse gases create heat themselves; clarify that these gases trap heat from the sun, rather than generating it.
- Emphasize that while some greenhouse gases are natural, human activities have significantly increased their concentration.
Extension Activities:
- Have students research different greenhouse gases (e.g., CO₂, methane) and compare their heat-trapping abilities.
- Challenge students to design a community initiative or personal action plan that could help reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Add comment
Comments