Thermal and Chemical Energy

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What is thermal energy?

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Thermal energy is the energy that comes from the temperature of matter. It is the total kinetic energy of the particles in an object.

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What is chemical energy?

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Chemical energy is the energy stored in the bonds of chemical compounds, like atoms and molecules. It is released or absorbed during a chemical reaction.

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How does thermal energy travel from the sun to the Earth?

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Thermal energy from the sun travels to the Earth by radiation.

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What is conduction?

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Conduction is the transfer of heat through direct contact between materials. For example, when a metal spoon is placed in a hot pot, heat moves from the pot to the spoon.

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What is convection?

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Convection is the transfer of heat through the movement of fluids (liquids or gases). For example, warm air rising and cool air sinking creates a convection current.

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What is radiation?

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Radiation is the transfer of energy through space without the need for a medium. An example is the heat from the sun reaching the Earth.

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

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Heat travels from the hotter object to the cooler object until they reach the same temperature.

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What is an example of conduction in everyday life?

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An example of conduction is when you touch a hot stove and feel the heat transfer to your hand.

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What is an example of convection in everyday life?

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An example of convection is when boiling water circulates in a pot, with hot water rising and cool water sinking.

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What is an example of radiation in everyday life?

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