Science Heating and Cooling

Front

What is a thermal conductor?

Back

A thermal conductor is a material that allows heat to pass through it easily. Examples include metals like copper and aluminum.

Front

What is a thermal insulator?

Back

A thermal insulator is a material that does not let heat pass through it easily. Examples include plastic, wood, and rubber.

Front

What happens to materials when they are heated?

Back

Most materials expand when heated, meaning they take up more space.

Front

What happens to materials when they are cooled?

Back

Most materials contract when cooled, meaning they take up less space.

Front

What is conduction?

Back

Conduction is the process of heat transfer through direct contact between materials.

Front

What is convection?

Back

Convection is the transfer of heat through fluids (liquids and gases) caused by the movement of the fluid itself.

Front

What is radiation?

Back

Radiation is the transfer of heat in the form of electromagnetic waves, such as sunlight.

Front

Why does an ice cube feel cold when held?

Back

An ice cube feels cold because heat moves from our hands into the ice cube, lowering the temperature of our hands.

Front

What is thermal expansion?

Back

Thermal expansion is the increase in volume of a material as it is heated.

Front

What is thermal contraction?

Back

Thermal contraction is the decrease in volume of a material as it is cooled.