Thermal Energy - Heat Transfer

Front

What is thermal energy?

Back

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

Front

What is heat transfer?

Back

Heat transfer is the movement of thermal energy from one object or substance to another due to a temperature difference.

Front

What are the three main types of heat transfer?

Back

The three main 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), where warmer areas of a fluid rise and cooler areas sink.

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 insulator?

Back

An insulator is a material that does not conduct heat well, preventing the transfer of thermal energy.

Front

What is a conductor?

Back

A conductor is a material that allows heat to pass through it easily, facilitating the transfer of thermal energy.

Front

Give an example of conduction in everyday life.

Back

Holding a hot cup of cocoa is an example of conduction, where heat transfers from the cup to your hand.

Front

Give an example of convection in everyday life.

Back

The rising and falling of lava in a lava lamp is an example of convection, where heated liquid rises and cooler liquid sinks.