Thermal Energy Flashcard Review

Front

What is thermal energy?

Back

Thermal energy is the total kinetic energy of all the molecules in a substance, which is related to its temperature.

Front

What determines the temperature of an object?

Back

The temperature of an object is determined by the average kinetic energy of its molecules.

Front

What happens to the kinetic energy of hot air when it comes into contact with cold air?

Back

The hot air will lose kinetic energy to the cold air.

Front

What is equilibrium in the context of thermal energy?

Back

Equilibrium is the stable state in which all molecules in a system are moving at about the same speed, resulting in no net energy transfer.

Front

Do all substances have thermal energy?

Back

Yes, all substances have thermal energy, as long as they have molecules that are in motion.

Front

What is the relationship between kinetic energy and temperature?

Back

As the average kinetic energy of molecules increases, the temperature of the substance also increases.

Front

What is energy transfer?

Back

Energy transfer is the process by which energy moves from one object or system to another, often occurring from a hotter object to a cooler one.

Front

What is conduction?

Back

Conduction is the transfer of thermal energy through direct contact between materials.

Front

What is convection?

Back

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

Front

What is radiation?

Back

Radiation is the transfer of energy through electromagnetic waves, such as heat from the sun.