Conductors and Insulators
Here is an introductory video on conductors and insulators (8:34).
Now, watch this video of a demonstration of a thermal tile from the space shuttle. Note that the tour guide makes several mistakes. He refers to a "9 pound material", but the cube he picks up does not appear to weigh 9 pounds. I think that he means 9-pounds-per-cubic-foot material, as NASA states the density of the tiles can range from 9 to 22 pounds per cubic foot.
- Is the thermal tile a good conductor of heat? Why or why not?
- Do you think the thermal tile would be a good conductor of electricity? Why or why not?
For the next activity, predict whether or not each of the following materials conducts electricity.
- Copper
- Plastic
- Aluminum
- Wood
- Plastic marker
- Pure water
- Salt water
- Screwdriver (metal driver part to plastic handle)
- Pickle
- Celery
- Apple
Now watch the video and answer the questions below.
- Did any of the results surprise you? Why or why not?
- Do you have any safety concerns about the experimental setup?
Last modified: Wednesday, 25 November 2020, 12:00 AM