Exploring Thermal Energy and Matter

Front

What is thermal energy?

Back

Thermal energy is the total energy of all the particles in an object due to their motion and position. It is related to temperature and heat.

Front

What happens to the volume of a gas when it is cooled?

Back

The volume of a gas decreases when it is cooled because the particles move closer together.

Front

What is thermal expansion?

Back

Thermal expansion is the increase in volume of a substance when it is heated, as the particles move faster and spread apart.

Front

What is thermal contraction?

Back

Thermal contraction is the decrease in volume of a substance when it is cooled, as the particles slow down and come closer together.

Front

How do gases transfer energy compared to solids?

Back

Gases transfer energy faster than solids because their particles are more spread out and move more freely.

Front

What happens to particles in a substance as it heats up?

Back

As a substance heats up, its particles speed up and move more vigorously.

Front

Which state of matter has the fastest-moving particles?

Back

Particles in steam (gas) move the fastest compared to particles in solids or liquids.

Front

What is the relationship between temperature and particle movement?

Back

As temperature increases, the movement of particles increases; as temperature decreases, particle movement decreases.

Front

What is an example of thermal expansion in everyday life?

Back

An example of thermal expansion is a metal lid that becomes easier to open after being run under hot water.

Front

What is an example of thermal contraction in everyday life?

Back

An example of thermal contraction is a balloon that shrinks when taken outside on a cold day.