Find a
Resource
Select grade level(s) Select resource type(s) Select collection(s) Select standard(s) Skip navigation Digital Library for Earth System Education
Digital Library for Earth System Education
Home
New to DLESE?
Search tips
Educational resources > Find a resource > Resource description
Aerosols Protocol DLESE Reviewed Collection
http://www.globe.gov/tctg/aerosol.pdf?sectionId=9
From GLOBE Program Collection
Comment on this resource
The purpose of this activity is to measure the aerosol optical thickness of the atmosphere (how much of the sun's light is scattered or absorbed by particles suspended in the air). Students point a GLOBE sun photometer at the sun and record the largest voltage reading they obtain on a digital voltmeter connected to the photometer. Students observe sky conditions near the sun, perform the Cloud, Optional Barometric Pressure (optional) and Relative Humidity Protocols, and measure current air temperature. Intended outcomes are that students will understand the concept that the atmosphere prevents all of the sun's light from reaching Earth's surface and they learn what causes hazy skies. Supporting background materials for both student and teacher are included.
Intended for grade levels:
  • Middle (6-8)
  • High (9-12)
Type of resource:
  • For the classroom:
    • Field activity
    • Guide for instructor
Subject:
  • Atmospheric science
  • Environmental science
  • Geographical Sciences:
    • Human geography
Technical requirements:
Netscape browser
Adobe Acrobat reader
Cost / Copyright:
No cost
For science/educational use consistent with the methodologies of the GLOBE Program.
DLESE Catalog ID: GLOBE-9
Educational standards:
  • National Science Education Standards (NSES):
    • 5-8:
      • Unifying concepts and processes:
        • Change, constancy, and measurement
        • Evidence, models, and explanation
      • A - Science as inquiry:
        • Abilities necessary to do scientific inquiry
        • Understanding about scientific inquiry
      • B - Physical science:
        • Properties and changes of properties in matter
        • Transfer of energy
    • 9-12:
      • Unifying concepts and processes:
        • Change, constancy, and measurement
        • Evidence, models, and explanation
      • A - Science as inquiry:
        • Abilities necessary to do scientific inquiry
        • Understandings about scientific inquiry
      • B - Physical science:
        • Interactions of energy and matter
        • Structure and properties of matter
      • D - Earth and space science:
        • Energy in the earth system
      • F - Science in personal / social perspectives:
        • Environmental quality
  • National Geography Standards:
    • Environment and society:
      • How human actions modify the physical env.
      • How physical systems affect human systems
Resource contact / Creator / Publisher:
Author: UCAR (University Corporation for Atmospheric Research)
The GLOBE Program
http://www.globe.gov/