[Virginia Tech Department of Physics]

Lecture Demonstrations

Heat & Thermodynamics
   

H56: Thermoelectric Converter

 

Purpose: To demonstrate the Second Law of Thermodynamics, and to show that thethermodynamics are reversible.

Description:

 

Heat to Electrical Energy:

Place one leg of the Thermoelectric Converter into cold water, the other into hot. The fan turns as the converter draws energy from the hot source (typically a 50°C temperature differential is required).

Electrical Energy to Heat:

Pass a current (3 A DC at 5 V) through the Thermoelectric Converter. It acts as a "heat pump." One leg becomes warmer while the other becomes cooler.

Equipment List: Storage Location: CHEMP 130A
  Thermoelectric Converter C5.3
  Styrofoam cups  
  Hot and cold water H1
  Dry ice or liquid nitrogen to maintain a temperature difference HAHN

References:

Manual: Online   Setup Notes: H56 PIRA #:
Manufacturer(s): Pasco Scientific # TD-8550A Other school's Demonstration web pages

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