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I2-43. Convection - Hot Plate

Purpose

To see convection currents

Equipment

Hot plate and point source of light.

Images

I2-43

Description

The irregular refraction patterns created by convection currents in air heated from below are easily seen when a light from a projector shines through the air onto a screen. This phenomenon is often seen when the sun shines brightly onto surfaces like cars and roads, and is responsible for the twinkling of stars.