Keep in Heat?

Question

Im doing a science prject where we hafta keep water in a can hot. What items/materials could I use that are good for keeping heat in?

Answer 1

Firstly, you have to look at how heat is transferred. Heat is basically the movement of particles. The quicker they move, the more heat there is.

So what if there were little to no particles to move in the first place? You can create a vacuum around this can. Of course, it won't be a perfect vacuum, but for a school project, it'll do. First, you need to make two layers for your Thermos. In between these layers is where you'll put the vacuum.

To make the vacuum, pierce the outside layer (which you should probably cover with something reflective like aluminum foil) and firmly attach a straw in the hole you created. Suck out as much air as you can. When you think you've got most of it, pinch the straw and cover the straw with silicone or something similar to plug the straw and ensure the air does not come back in. You'll have created a half-assed vacuum.

As for insulators, styrofoam is good for preventing heat transfer through conduction because styrofoam actually has air pockets in it. However, because of those air pockets, it blows at preventing heat loss through convection. To prevent heat loss from convection, you need a substance that you can pack close together to prevent air pockets. I would recommend something like sawdust.

Good luck on your project.

Answer 2

try using some insulator or styrofoam

Answer 3

You could place duct tape or wrap a towel wrapped around it. Styrofoam, bubble wrap, things like that could help keep it warm. I think placing the can in an empty larger can will work pretty well also, but make sure it has a lid.