Particle Theory of Matter - Conduction

Aim: To observe conduction along with a metal rod.

Equipment: A metal rod, retort stand and clamp, Bunsen burner, petroleum jelly, 5-10 drawing pins. a stopwatch.

Method: 

1. Set up and light a Bunsen burner.
2. Smear a small amount of petroleum jelly onto the head of each drawing pin.
3. Attach the drawing pins at even intervals along the length of the metal rod.
4. Clamp one end of the metal rod to a retort stand.
5. Position the retort stand so the unclamped end of the metal rod is in the Bunsen flame and start the stopwatch.
6. Record the time it takes for each pin to drop in the table below.

Results: 

Discussion: The metal rod was conductible and was able to send the heat through the rod. This happens because the particles in the metal rod start to vibrate when the heat reaches them and it spreads throughout all the particles further down in the rod. The heat transfers from the rod onto the Vaseline, cause them to heat up and melt. The pins then fall down.