Heat water up like a NASA engineer. Using the engineering design process, investigators create a system to trap and move heat through a water-filled tube. Designers participate in a post-activity discussion that highlights the role of heat transfer and the benefits of a solar-powered water heater. 

Concepts

conduction, convection, radiation, solar energy, solar radiation, space exploration, space programs, heat energy

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Instructional Ideas

• Allow participants to work as teams for a collaborative learning experience
• Have volunteers explain their designs to the group after the activity

Classroom Considerations

• Construct a model hot water heater prior to the activity
• Collect materials ahead of time, including whether to use lamps or sunlight for the heat source

Pros

• Provides an organized educator's guide
• Hands-on experience fosters problem-solving skills 

Cons

• None