Final answer:
Alternatives to burners like the 'Atwater' bomb calorimeter and simple homemade calorimeters using foam cups can be used to conduct experiments that measure thermal energy. Commercial solution calorimeters are also available with more advanced features for precision.
Step-by-step explanation:
In a chemistry experiment, if the use of burners is not an option, there are several alternatives that you could use. The 'Atwater' bomb calorimeter is one such piece of equipment that does not require a burner. The sample is placed in the bomb, which is then charged with oxygen. The combustion of the sample is initiated by an electric spark, and the generated heat is measured by the rise in the water's temperature that the bomb is submerged in.
Another simple alternative is using a homemade calorimeter constructed out of nested foam coffee cups, an insulated cover, a thermometer, and a stirrer. This setup helps to measure the thermal energy changes during chemical reactions as well. For more accurate and industry-relevant measurements, you can use commercial solution calorimeters that come with fully enclosed reaction vessels, motorized stirring, and precise temperature sensors.