Holding a Test Tube of Boiling Water

Concept Overview:

Water is a poor conductor of heat.

Lecturer Procedure

Step(s) to Follow

1. Fill test tube nearly to the top with water.
2. Light Bunsen burner.
3. Hold tube near the bottom, and tilt nearly 45 degrees into the flame so that the top inch is in the flame

Expected Result

The water will boil where the flame is, but not below. Your hand will not get burned.