Heat: Transfer of Thermal Energy

Front

What is thermal energy?

Back

Thermal energy is the energy that comes from the temperature of matter. It is the total kinetic energy of the particles in a substance.

Front

What is conduction?

Back

Conduction is the transfer of thermal energy through direct contact between materials. It occurs when heat moves from a hotter object to a cooler one.

Front

What is convection?

Back

Convection is the transfer of thermal energy through the movement of fluids (liquids and gases). It occurs when warmer, less dense fluid rises and cooler, denser fluid sinks.

Front

What is radiation?

Back

Radiation is the transfer of thermal energy through electromagnetic waves. It does not require a medium and can occur in a vacuum.

Front

What is heat capacity?

Back

Heat capacity is the amount of heat energy required to change the temperature of a substance by one degree Celsius.

Front

What is a conductor?

Back

A conductor is a material that allows thermal energy to pass through it easily, such as metals.

Front

What is an insulator?

Back

An insulator is a material that resists the flow of thermal energy, such as rubber or wood.

Front

Where is water the least dense in a pot of boiling water?

Back

Water is least dense at the top, farthest from the heat source.

Front

Can conduction, convection, and radiation happen at the same time?

Back

Yes, conduction, convection, and radiation can occur simultaneously in various situations.

Front

What happens to the density of water as it heats up?

Back

As water heats up, it becomes less dense and rises, while cooler, denser water sinks.