ConcepTest: Hot/Cold Water Circulation
This material was originally created for
Starting Point:Introductory Geology and is replicated here as part of the SERC Pedagogic Service.
Question:
A fish tank is filled almost to the brim with room temperature water. Two containers of cold and hot water are prepared. Red coloring is added to the hot water, blue coloring is added to the cold water. The cold water is added to the right-hand side of the tank as the hot water is added at the same time at the left side of the tank (see diagram). Circulation of the hot and cold water in the tank will share similarities with patterns of circulation in the ocean. Use the diagrams below to predict the paths the hot and cold water would take in the tank.
a. Ab. B
c. C
d. D
e. E
Student Responses:
If you would like to help acquire more Before and After statistics for this example, please contact the authors (see link at top of page).
References and Notes:
The use of ConcepTests and Peer Instruction is discussed in detail on the ConcepTest page.
McConnell, D.A., Steer, D.N. and Owens, K.A., 2003, Assessment and Active Learning Strategies for Introductory Geology Courses, Journal of Geoscience Education, 51(2), 205-216.
McConnell, D.A., Steer et al., 2006, Using Conceptests to Assess and Improve Student Conceptual Understanding in Introductory Courses, Journal of Geoscience Education, (54(1), 61-68.