Thermal Energy and Heat Transfer

Front

What is thermal energy?

Back

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

Front

What is heat transfer?

Back

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

Front

What is conduction?

Back

Conduction is the transfer of heat through direct contact between materials.

Front

Give an example of conduction.

Back

Touching hot sand with your feet is an example of conduction.

Front

What is convection?

Back

Convection is the transfer of heat through the movement of fluids (liquids or gases).

Front

Give an example of convection.

Back

Boiling water is an example of convection, where hot water rises and cooler water sinks.

Front

What is radiation?

Back

Radiation is the transfer of heat in the form of electromagnetic waves.

Front

Give an example of radiation.

Back

The Sun heating the Earth is an example of radiation.

Front

How does thermal energy move from a hot object to a cold object?

Back

Thermal energy moves from the hot object to the cold object until they reach the same temperature.

Front

What happens to a cold metal spoon placed in boiling water?

Back

Thermal energy is transferred from the water to the spoon, making the spoon hot.