Kids’ Energy Efficiency Experiment: Insulation

Kids today are growing up in a world reliant on information technology, which in turn relies on electrical energy. From watching TV and playing games to just completing their schoolwork, kids continually use electricity to stay connected.

As adults, we understand the importance of conserving energy—to protect the environment and lower our utility bills—especially during the summer months.

This summer, while your kids are out of school, dive into this science experiment to help them care about their energy use and learn the value of a dollar.
 
Insulation Test
Items needed:
3 plastic cups, 1 plastic foam cup, aluminum foil, scratch paper, ice cubes
 
Directions
1.  Take three identical plastic cups and place two ice cubes in each. Place the first plastic cup inside the plastic foam cup. Cover the outside of the second cup with aluminum foil. The remaining cup will be the control and can remain as is. Cover the tops of all three cups with a piece of paper.
2. Set a timer and leave the cups outside for 5–10 minutes, depending on the temperature.
3. Ask your children which cup they think will remain the coldest. After the timer is up, check on the cups and see which one has the most ice remaining.
 
Results
The cup inside the plastic foam cup should be the coldest.
 
Explanation
Plastic foam acts as an insulator and keeps the ice cold against the heat. It acts much like the insulation in a house or how a refrigerator keeps food cold. Insulation is important in a house because it keeps cooled air on the inside and heat on the outside.