Thermal Energy

Front

What is thermal energy?

Back

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

Front

What is conduction?

Back

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

Front

Give an example of conduction.

Back

Heat moving from a clothes iron to a shirt.

Front

What is convection?

Back

Convection is the transfer of heat by the movement of fluids (liquids or gases) where hot fluid rises and cold fluid sinks.

Front

What is radiation?

Back

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

Front

Which materials are good conductors of heat?

Back

Metals, such as copper and aluminum, are good conductors of heat.

Front

Which materials are poor conductors of heat?

Back

Wood, plastic, and glass are poor conductors of heat.

Front

What happens to air when it is heated?

Back

Heated air expands, becomes less dense, and rises.

Front

What is the direction of heat transfer?

Back

Heat transfers from warmer objects to cooler objects.

Front

What is an example of convection in everyday life?

Back

Boiling water where hot water rises and cooler water sinks.