Infrared Spectra of Greenhouse Gases
Infrared Spectra of Greenhouse Gases Visualisation A visualisation to learn about the infrared (IR) spectra of different greenhouse gases and the effect of greenhouse gases on the Earth’s climate. Students will use the visualisation to view the IR spectra of different greenhouse gases, observe the amount of IR radiation absorbed for the current concentration of […]
Planetary Energy Balance
Planetary Energy Balance Teaching Module A teaching module including readings and associated links by the American Chemical Society that discusses the balance between incoming solar energy and outgoing terrestrial energy and its relationship with the surface temperature of the Earth. This overview reading can be used as an introduction to the topic by teachers interested […]
Introduction to Planetary Energy Balance
Introduction to Planetary Energy Balance Reading A reading by University Corporation for Atmospheric Research (UCAR) Center for Science Education that discusses how the surface temperature of the Earth can be calculated through simple energy balance equations.This overview reading can be used as an introduction to the topic by teachers interested in teaching about planetary energy […]
Urban Heat Island
Urban Heat Island Classroom/Laboratory Activity A laboratory activity to learn about the urban heat island effect and heat waves. Students will collect temperature-related data from various parts of their schoolyard, observe and analyze differences in the data, and discuss the environmental factors that affect the temperature. With the help of temperature data for Los Angeles […]
The Greenhouse Effect
The Greenhouse Effect Model/Simulation An interactive simulation to explore the role of different greenhouse gases in causing the greenhouse effect. This PhET simulation titled, ‘The Greenhouse Effect’ by University of Colorado, Boulder, helps to visualise the greenhouse effect of the atmosphere. Students will learn how certain gases in the atmosphere absorb outgoing terrestrial radiation and […]
Teaching Planck’s Law and Blackbody Radiation through Climate-related Examples
Teaching Planck’s Law and Blackbody Radiation through Climate-related Examples Overview As a high school or undergraduate Physics teacher, you can use this set of computer-based tools to help you in teaching Planck’s Law, the StefanBoltzmann Law, and Blackbody Radiation. This lesson plan allows students to visualize the emission spectra associated with particular temperatures, to understand […]