Exploring Conductors and Insulators in Science

Andrew and Kate from the Connecticut Science Center explore the concepts of conductors and insulators using two seemingly identical blocks. They conduct an experiment with ice cubes to demonstrate how different materials affect heat transfer. The metal block, a conductor, melts the ice faster than the plastic block, an insulator. Viewers are encouraged to try similar experiments at home using everyday materials and to share their findings with the science center.

What initial observations did Andrew make about the two black squares?

• They are different sizes.

• They are different colors.

• They are the same color and size.

• One is thicker than the other.

Tags

CCSS.RL.6.3

CCSS.RL.8.3

CCSS.RL.7.3

CCSS.RL.9-10.3

CCSS.RL.11-12.9

What was found inside the cooler?

• A thermometer

• Water

• Ice cubes

• A snake

What did Andrew notice about the ice cubes on the blocks?

• Both ice cubes melted at the same rate.

• One ice cube melted faster and spun around.

• One ice cube turned into steam.

• Both ice cubes remained solid.

What did Andrew discover when he touched the blocks?

• Both blocks felt the same.

• One block felt cold and the other felt warm.

• Both blocks felt cold.

• Both blocks felt warm.

What material was the block that felt cold made of?

• Glass

• Wood

• Plastic

• Metal

What is a conductor in the context of this experiment?

• A person who leads an orchestra.

• A material that prevents heat from moving.

• A person who drives a train.

• A material that moves heat easily.

What is an insulator in the context of this experiment?

• A material that moves heat easily.

• A material that prevents heat from moving.

• A person who leads an orchestra.

• A person who drives a train.

What did Kate suggest using to test conductors and insulators at home?

• Only plastic objects

• Only metal objects

• Various household items like tiles, wood, and plates

• Only identical blocks

What tool did Kate recommend using to make the home experiment more scientific?

• A scale

• A timer

• A thermometer

• A ruler

Where can viewers send their experiment data?

• To a science magazine

• To a friend

• To the Connecticut Science Center

• To their local school