Constructing a Device to Regulate the
Release of Energy - Student Guide
Assignment Summary
In this project, you will design, construct, test, and modify a device that releases thermal energy by
chemical processes. You will be provided specific materials by your instructor, and will use these
materials to design a device that releases energy to the environment. Next, you will build the device and
test it by gathering temperature data. Finally, you will use your data to evaluate the design and decide
how to improve your device.

The device controlled the activation as shown by the water holding room temperature for 15 seconds until activation by crushing the pills. The temperature rose 30° over two minutes,showing a measurable exothermic reaction from the Calcium Chloride dissolving in the water.

Pour 5mL water in a quart bag

Place Thermometer in the bag to make contact

Fill two gelatin 000 capsules with 1 gram of Calcium Chloride

Place capsules into the bag

Wait 15 seconds to crush the capsules while they are submerged in the water

-Temperature

0 seconds 75 degrees

15 seconds - Activation 75 degrees

30 seconds 85 degrees

60 seconds 95 degrees

90 seconds 104 degrees

120 seconds 105 degrees

Conclusion: During a reaction, thermal energy from the environment is converted into chemical energy stored in the products.