Collisional Heating in the Atmosphere
Data, Graphs, and Maps
Grades9, 10, 11, 12Chemistry, Physics, Earth and Space Sciences
This resource has been reviewed by SubjectToClimate's climate scientists and verified for scientific accuracy and up-to-date information. Learn about our review process →
Provided by King's Centre for Visualization in Science
What it is
- This interactive tool shows the molecular effects of different wavelengths of infrared radiation colliding with various greenhouse gases in the atmosphere.
- Students can select each gas separately, add or remove other atmospheric gases from the simulation, maneuver the 3-D simulation to see it from other angles, and change the wavelength of radiation to see the effects.
Teaching tips
Positives
- Students can watch the temperature of the simulation increase as the radiation causes more movement of the molecules.
Additional Prerequisites
- It may help to review the thermal properties of greenhouse gases and the electromagnetic spectrum prior to using this tool.
Differentiation
- Chemistry and physics classes can use this simulation for lessons about heat, energy, the electromagnetic spectrum, or the greenhouse effect.
- Biology classes can use this resource as an activity when discussing metabolism, energy flow, photosynthesis, and global warming.
- Have younger students act out the movements of the molecules as the wavelengths of radiation change.
- After students have explored all gases, ask students which ones are greenhouse gases and which are not. Then have them compare the wavelengths that each greenhouse gas react to and identify them on an electromagnetic spectrum chart.
From the scientist review
The resource deepens students understanding in the interactions of infrared radiation with selected molecules and greenhouse gases. Datasets used for visualizing these collisions and interactions have met prerequisite standards, they are valid and can be replicated. This resource is recommended.
How we review resourcesReady to use it?
Hosted on applets.kcvs.ca
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