Science Investigations

Studying Heat & Light sensors on the Stairwell

1. How do you think the temperature of the stairwell will differ on either side of the flats during the day?

Make a prediction based on your knowledge of passive solar gain.

What data do you need to test this theory?
Click here for a map of where the sensors are.

Which of the possible variables are kept constant and which change?
Are there any variables which need to be kept constant but you are unable to do so?
Decide whether a graph or table is the best way to present the data.
Can you think of any reasons for the results that you can see?
Can you think of an explanation for any surprises in the data?
Can you suggest another set of data you could use to check?

Click here to choose your data to investigate

Points to consider about the data.

(Hover your mouse pointer over each icon for more information)

The stairwell has vents which open at a certain temperature to cool the area. Some of the residents use the stairs and when the access door opens a draught is created. Overnight the stairwells will not be subject to solar gain. Cloud will reduce the amount of solar gain. The angle of the sun during the year will vary and could affect passive solar gain. At a low angle of the sun the bottom windows may not receive direct sunlight.

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