Thermal Energy Concepts

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Thermal Energy

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The total energy of a substance's particles due to their random motion, including translational, rotational, and vibrational kinetic energy.

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Temperature

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A measure of the average kinetic energy of the particles in a substance.

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Heat

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Thermal energy transferred between objects due to a temperature difference. Heat always flows from a region of higher temperature to a region of lower temperature.

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Kinetic Energy

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The energy of motion.

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Conduction

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The transfer of thermal energy through direct contact, occurring when particles collide and transfer kinetic energy.

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Convection

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The transfer of thermal energy within a fluid (liquid or gas) through the movement of warmer and cooler fluids.

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Radiation

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The transfer of energy through electromagnetic waves, which can travel through solids, liquids, gases, and even empty space.

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Conductor

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A material that transfers thermal energy easily.

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Insulator

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A material that resists the flow of thermal energy.

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Specific Heat Capacity

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The amount of heat required per unit mass to raise the temperature of a substance by one degree Celsius (or Kelvin).