PSL Calorimetry Lab #1 Water Mixtures
Enter your class period (1-8)
At this time, you need to minimize (NOT close) your browser window. Next go to Start, Programs, Personal Science Laboratory and PSL Excelerator. When Excelerator opens, click on the thermometer icon. To calibrate a thermometer, enter the number taped to the probe's wire and choose extended. Answer okay to location to the right of $C:$C. Click on the experiment clock and set the duration to 10 minutes (not seconds). When you are ready to measure and record the water temperatures, press the G for GO button.
When you are ready to mix the two water sample together, carefully pour the COLD water into the HOT water. Note that no water should overflow from the HOT water cup since both cup samples were initially LESS than ½ full. Use the temperature probe to gently stir the mixture - record the final equilibrium temperature. Do NOT slosh any water out of the HOT cup.
Sheatgained + Sheatlost = 0
to solve for the theoretical final temperature of the water mixture. Be sure to first write your variable expression with m's, c's, Tf's and To's before you substitute in your experimental values to solve for Tf.
Conclusions: Determine the accuracy of your experiment by calculating your data's percent error.
% error = | Experimental - Theoretical | * 100 Theoretical
Discuss what your group feels is this lab's (a) greatest source of error and (b) a valid procedure that could minimize the error's negative consequences when the lab is completed next year.
When you are finished with the experiment, close PSL Excelerator (File, Exit - do NOT save changes or any data), dry off the probe, empty your water samples into the front sink and turn your empty cups upside down on a paper towel to dry out for next period.
