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4B40.10 - Light the Match

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​4B40.10 - Light the Match

Preview
SelectSelected
Title4B40.10 - Light the Match
Objective

Demonstrate how to light a match with light focused by a mirror.​

StatusAvailable
Assembly Instructions

Overview
This demo intensely focuses the light of a bulb onto a match. The heat from the focused beam causes the match to light without friction.
Instructions
The demo components are a light source, a match, and two concave mirrors (Two 9"f.l., mounted on aluminum holders and marked for this demonstration).
Put a mirror on each end of a 4' cart with the bulb or match at the focal point of each mirror.
First, focus the bulb's filament with the bulb mirror such that the row of filaments is parallel to the mirror, creating large area (beam) of light to reflect onto the other mirror. You want the column of light to be about the size of the other mirror, use a blocking plate in front of the match mirror to check that you're aligned correctly.
Next, dim the bulb, remove the blocking plate, and find the focal point of the other mirror to place the match. The column of light with focus at a single point, and this is where you want to put the match. Adjust the clip and match so that the cordite is at the focal point.
To run: turn up the variac (for the 1200W bulb, go to ~80V on the variac). You will see smoke and match will light in ~30 seconds.
 
Blow out match when finished!



​

Setup Time5
Operation Time
Preview Time
Operation Instructions

Operation Steps
1   Turn on the variac.
2   Blow out the lit match
​

ExportableYes
Demo on DimeNo
PIRA 200Yes
Export Instructions (if different)
HazardsNone
Analysis/Information
Category4 Thermodynamics
Subcategory4B - Heat and the First Law
Keywordsmatch light, focus
Construction Information
 
Equipment TitleUse SHIFT+ENTER to open the menu (new window).
  
QuantityUse SHIFT+ENTER to open the menu (new window).
  
mounted mirror 18" concave with short focal length
2
light bulb - 750W, filament
1
scissor jack
1
light bulb shield - copper half cylinder
1
variac
1
matches
1
squeezee clamp
4
Export Setup - (2) 6" concave mirrors, 1200W lightbulb, match holder, matches, variac, light shield, alignment fixtures
1