Thermal Energy

Front

What is thermal energy?

Back

Thermal energy is the total kinetic energy of the particles in a substance, 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.

Front

What is water vapor?

Back

Water vapor is the gaseous form of water, which occurs when water evaporates.

Front

What happens to thermal energy when a hot object is placed in a cooler environment?

Back

The thermal energy decreases as heat flows from the hot object to the cooler environment.

Front

What is the direction of heat transfer?

Back

Heat transfer occurs from warmer objects to colder ones.

Front

What is the effect of temperature on molecular motion?

Back

As temperature increases, molecular motion becomes faster; as temperature decreases, molecular motion slows down.

Front

What is an example of conduction?

Back

An example of conduction is touching a hot stove and feeling the heat transfer to your hand.

Front

What is an example of convection?

Back

An example of convection is warm air rising and cool air sinking in a room.