Thermal Energy, Insulators, and Conductors

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 an object.

Front

What happens to the kinetic energy of particles in cold objects?

Back

Cold objects have lower kinetic energy because their particles are moving around less.

Front

What is a conductor?

Back

A conductor is a material that allows heat or electricity to flow through it easily.

Front

Give an example of a good conductor.

Back

Aluminum foil is a good conductor of electricity.

Front

What is an insulator?

Back

An insulator is a material that does not allow heat or electricity to flow through it easily.

Front

Give an example of an insulator.

Back

Plastic is an example of an insulator.

Front

What happens to liquids in a thermometer as temperature increases?

Back

The liquid in a thermometer expands as the temperature increases.

Front

What do we measure with Celsius or Fahrenheit degrees?

Back

We measure temperature with Celsius or Fahrenheit degrees.

Front

Which of the following is NOT a conductor: metal spoon, wire, humans, or plastic spoon?

Back

Plastic spoon is NOT a conductor.

Front

Why do metals make good conductors?

Back

Metals have free electrons that can move easily, allowing them to conduct heat and electricity.