In this inquiry-based lesson, students will work in groups to build a solar water heater and will investigate which colors absorb more radiant heat and transmit it to the water, and study the relationship between insulation and heat loss.

Teacher background, assessment questions, and extensions are provided. The expected out come in this activity is for students to understand how solar energy can reduce the hot water energy bill.

The student will do the following:

• Construct a simple solar water heater.
• Investigate color and heat.
• Investigate insulation and heat.