Thermal Energy - Heat Transfer

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 are the three types of heat transfer?

Back

The three types of heat transfer are conduction, convection, and radiation.

Front

Define conduction.

Back

Conduction is the transfer of heat through direct contact between materials, where heat moves from the hotter object to the cooler one.

Front

Define convection.

Back

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

Front

Define radiation.

Back

Radiation is the transfer of heat in the form of electromagnetic waves, which can occur in a vacuum.

Front

What is an example of conduction?

Back

An example of conduction is a metal spoon getting hot when placed in a pot of boiling water.

Front

What is an example of convection?

Back

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

Front

What is an example of radiation?

Back

An example of radiation is feeling the warmth of the sun on your skin.

Front

How does convection work in a lava lamp?

Back

In a lava lamp, heated wax becomes less dense and rises, while cooler wax sinks, creating a convection current.

Front

What materials are good conductors of thermal energy?

Back

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