Thermal Energy

Front

What is thermal energy?

Back

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

Front

What is conduction?

Back

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

Front

What is convection?

Back

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

Front

What is radiation?

Back

Radiation is the transfer of heat in the form of electromagnetic waves, such as light or infrared radiation.

Front

What is an insulator?

Back

An insulator is a material that does not conduct heat well, helping to keep heat in or out.

Front

What happens to temperature when an insulator is effective?

Back

The temperature of an object shows very little change over time.

Front

What occurs when two objects at different temperatures are in contact?

Back

Heat transfers from the hotter object to the cooler object until they reach thermal equilibrium.

Front

What is thermal equilibrium?

Back

Thermal equilibrium is the state in which two objects in contact no longer transfer heat to each other because they are at the same temperature.

Front

How does heat transfer occur in a fluid?

Back

Heat transfer in a fluid occurs through convection, where warmer, less dense fluid rises and cooler, denser fluid sinks.

Front

What is the role of the handles on a metal pan when cooking?

Back

The handles of a metal pan can become hot due to conduction, posing a burn risk.