Thermal Equilibrium

Front

What is thermal equilibrium?

Back

Thermal equilibrium is the state in which two objects in contact with each other do not exchange heat energy, meaning they are at the same temperature.

Front

What are the three methods of heat transfer?

Back

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

Front

Define conduction.

Back

Conduction is the transfer of heat through a solid material without the movement of the material itself, typically occurring in solids.

Front

Define convection.

Back

Convection is the transfer of heat through fluids (liquids and gases) caused by the movement of the fluid itself.

Front

Define radiation.

Back

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

Front

What happens to thermal energy when two objects at different temperatures come into contact?

Back

Thermal energy will flow from the hotter object to the cooler object until they reach thermal equilibrium.

Front

What is an example of conduction?

Back

An example of conduction is a metal spoon getting hot when placed in a hot soup.

Front

What is an example of convection?

Back

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

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 the Gulf Stream demonstrate convection?

Back

The Gulf Stream demonstrates convection by moving warm water from the equator towards the poles, creating a current.