Question

EXPERIMENT: DEW POINT

Here are your goals for this assignment:

Define dew point
Determine the dew point of the surrounding air
Collect data and summarize findings
These supplies are needed:

shiny metal can
ice cubes
water
thermometer
stir rod or spoon
Follow these steps:

1. Record the temperature of the air.
2. Fill a shiny metal can with water at room temperature.
3. Slowly add ice to the water and stir gently with stir rod or spoon. Continue to add ice until a film of water appears on the surface of the metal can.
4. Record the temperature when the dew develops on the can.
5. Repeat this experiment to confirm the data.

Write a scientific summary of your findings. Include your hypothesis, data, observations, and conclusion. Be sure to answers the questions below in your report as well as explaining your method and results.
Why must the metal can be shiny?
Why must the ice be added slowly?
What advantages would be in repeating the experiment several times?
What is the average dew point?
If possible, compare your findings with someone else who did the experiment. How are your results similar or different, and why?
What did you find out from this investigation? Be thoughtful in your answer.

Answer 1

The experiment, using a shiny metal can and gradual ice addition, aimed to determine the dew point. Repeating trials enhances reliability. A shiny surface aids heat exchange, and gradual ice addition ensures controlled conditions.

The experiment aimed to determine the dew point of the surrounding air using a shiny metal can, ice cubes, water, and a thermometer.

Hypothesis:

The hypothesis was likely based on the expectation that as the temperature of the metal can decreases, reaching the dew point, water vapor in the air would condense on its surface.

Method and Observations:

Recording the initial air temperature, a shiny metal can was filled with room temperature water, and ice was slowly added. The shiny surface is essential because it allows for better heat transfer, aiding the can to reach the dew point. Adding ice gradually prevents sudden temperature drops, ensuring a controlled experiment.

Results and Conclusions:

When the dew developed on the can, the temperature was recorded. Repeating the experiment is beneficial for data reliability and consistency. The average dew point can be calculated from multiple trials.

Answers to Questions:

Shiny Metal Can: A shiny surface facilitates better heat exchange, aiding the can in reaching the dew point more effectively.

Slow Ice Addition: Gradual ice addition prevents abrupt temperature changes, maintaining experimental control.

Repeating the Experiment: Multiple trials enhance data reliability, helping to identify patterns and reduce the impact of outliers.

Average Dew Point: Calculate the average dew point from the recorded temperatures in repeated trials for a more accurate result.

Comparison with Others: Comparing findings with others can reveal variations, promoting discussion on potential factors influencing results.