Leslie's Cube Radiation Cube

Leslie's cube, invented by Sir John Leslie in the early 19th century, shows the effect of surface reflectance and emissivity on the absorption or emission of light. It comes with a rubber stopper and instructions.

Four sides to choose from - matte black, shiny black, white, shiny metal.

To study light absorption, fill with cold water and place a thermometer in the included rubber stopper. Shine bright light (sunlight works well) on one side only and time how long it takes the temperature to rise. Compare the heating times for the different sides.

You will need one or more radiometers to study infrared light emission from Leslie's cube. Fill Leslie's cube with hot water and close with the stopper. (Keep a thermometer in the stopper to measure the water temperature, if desired.) Place a radiometer along one side of Leslie's cube to measure the light emitted. Having radiometers placed on opposite sides of Leslie's cube offers a clear demonstration of the difference caused by differing surface emissivity.

Dimensions:

(length x width x height) - 5 inch x 5 inch x 6 inch (125 mm x 125 mm x 150 mm).

A thermometer is not included.

Measurements are approximate.