PURPOSE: Model of use of a bimetal strip in a thermostat.

DESCRIPTION: Heat the bimetal strip so that it curves toward the wire. When it touches the wire it completes the circuit, lighting the bulb. This is similar to the mechanism in a real bi-metal strip thermostat to turn on and off the power to the furnace (actually just the opposite effect, but what the heck). Turn the bimetal strip around and you have a real thermostat. This is more like an air conditioner controller.

SUGGESTIONS:

REFERENCES: (PIRA 4A30.11)

EQUIPMENT: Bimetal strip with gas burner, battery with lead wires and clip-on light bulb.

SETUP TIME: None.