Power and Energy 2A: Regulating temperature

Two closed boxes have identical heaters but the heat capacity of the left-hand box is much greater than the heat capacity of the right-hand box. The power switch controls both heaters.

1. Run the model and turn the graph on to monitor the temperatures. Click on a thermometer to highlight its data.
2. Use the buttons at the upper-right corner of the graph window to rescale the curves if necessary.
3. When the left-hand side box reaches 5°C, turn off the power.
4. Try to keep the temperature in the left-hand side box between 3 and 5°C by turning the power on and off.
5. Compare the shapes of the two temperature curves.

After you have completed your investigation, answer the questions in your workbook.