Physics Demonstrations at Cal Poly Pomona
Demo Index:
Pira Index:
Title:
THERMO-ELECTRIC CONVERTER
Description:
Demonstrates that the available energy associated with a temperature difference can be converted into electrical energy.
Equipment:
1. Thermo-electric converter
2. Two styrofoam cups
3. Ice water
4. Small coffee pot w/ hot water
Procedure:
1. Fill one cup w/ ice water; the other w/ hot water.
2. Place one leg of the converter in the hot water; the other in the ice water as shown.
3. Wait a few moments for the temperature of the legs to change. Watch the fan begin to rotate (it might need a slight nudge to get it moving).
4. Now mix the water in the two beakers so that they are both at approximately 50°C. There is still the same thermal energy, but now the fan won’t turn.
