Thermal Energy

Front

What is thermal energy?

Back

Thermal energy is the total kinetic energy of the particles in a substance, which is related to its temperature.

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What is conduction?

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Conduction is the transfer of heat through direct contact between materials, where heat moves from the hotter object to the cooler one.

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What is convection?

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Convection is the transfer of heat through the movement of fluids (liquids or gases) caused by differences in temperature and density.

Front

What is radiation?

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Radiation is the transfer of heat in the form of electromagnetic waves, such as infrared radiation, which can occur in a vacuum.

Front

What happens to particles in a substance when it is heated?

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As a substance is heated, its particles gain energy and move faster, leading to an increase in temperature.

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What is an example of conduction?

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An example of conduction is touching a hot metal spoon that has been in a pot of boiling water.

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What is an example of convection?

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An example of convection is warm air rising and cool air sinking, such as in a room with a heater.

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What is an example of radiation?

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An example of radiation is feeling the warmth of the Sun on your skin.

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What is the role of insulation in heat transfer?

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Insulation reduces heat transfer by conduction, convection, and radiation, helping to keep heat in or out of a space.

Front

How does temperature affect the density of a substance?

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As temperature increases, the density of most substances decreases because the particles move further apart.