What Causes the Seasons?
Recommended for grades 5–8.
Introduction
Because the axis of the Earth is tilted, the Earth receives different amounts of solar radiation at different times of the year. The amount of solar radiation received by the Earth or another planet is called insolation. The tilt of the axis produces the seasons. In this experiment, a simulated sun—a light bulb—will shine on a Temperature Probe attached to a globe. You will study how the tilt of the globe influences warming caused by the lighted bulb.
Objectives
In this experiment, you will
- Monitor simulated warming of your city by the sun in the winter.
- Monitor simulated warming of your city by the sun in the summer.
- Interpret your results.
Sensors and Equipment
This experiment requires each of the following Vernier sensors and equipment (unless otherwise noted):
Additional Requirements
You may also need an interface and software for data collection. What do I need for data collection?
Download Experiment Preview
The student-version preview includes:
- Step-by-step instructions for computer-based data collection
- List of materials and equipment
Note: The experiment preview of the computer edition does not include essential teacher information, safety tips, or sample data. Instructions for Logger Pro and other software (such as LabQuest App or TI handheld software, where available) are on the CD that accompanies the book. We strongly recommend that you purchase the book before performing experiments.
Standards Correlations
See all standards correlations for Middle School Science with Vernier »
Included in the Lab Book
Vernier lab books include a CD with word-processing files of the student instructions, essential teacher information, suggested answers, sample data and graphs, and more.