Te Reo Physics Resources

Multimedia Physics and Science Teaching Resources

Home

Cold Sweat | Werawera Mātao

Introduction

Abstract
Evaporating liquids remove thermal energy. Sweating uses this physics to cool the body.

Principles Illustrated
Cooling by evaporation is explored by placing a thermometer in paper towels soaked with ethanol and observing the temperature of the thermometer over time.
Moving a molecule from the liquid to the vapour requires energy, which is removed from the thermometer causing it to cool.

Content

Video

English version

Te Reo Māori Version

Instructions

Wrap the thermometer in paper towels. Pour some alcohol on to the paper towels.

Cold Sweat Data
Temperature versus Time for evaporating alcohol.
Cold Sweat Data
Temperature versus Time for evaporating alcohol.
Cold Sweat Sports
A student uses cooling by evaporation.

Other Information

Safety

Use methylated spirits or ethanol. Remember alcohol and solvents are flammable.
Individual teachers are responsible for safety in their own classes. Even familiar demonstrations should be practised and safety-checked by individual teachers before they are used in a classroom.

Te Whakamātao Mā te Paera (Cooling by Boiling), Hū Mātao (Cold Boil), Pēnā i te Mātao o Tangaroa (Cold as Neptune).

Credits

This teaching resource was developed by the Te Reo Māori Physics Project with support from