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Emission spectra were recorded for several commercially available light sources using a small, portable UV−vis spectrophotometer equipped with a UV−vis fiber optic probe. These spectra help students gain a clearer understanding of electromagnetic spectra by illustrating the relationship between the spectral patterns and appropriate uses of these light sources. Calculations allow students to compare the carbon dioxide emissions, energy requirements and cost of using different light sources, and the impact of more efficient lighting on global warming.

Students prepare Excel graphs using the most recent available ice-core data for estimated temperatures and atmospheric carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide concentrations from the Antarctic for the past 800 000 years. These graphs are used to discuss the meaning and relationships of past data trends and their relevance to the topic of climate change.