Thermal Energy Flashcard

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 the particles in an object.

Front

What are the three methods of thermal energy transfer?

Back

The three methods of thermal energy transfer are conduction, convection, and radiation.

Front

Define conduction in the context of thermal energy transfer.

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 and density.

Front

How does radiation differ from conduction and convection?

Back

Radiation transfers thermal energy through electromagnetic waves and does not require a medium, while conduction and convection require matter.

Front

Give an example of radiation in everyday life.

Back

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

Front

What happens to particles during conduction?

Back

During conduction, particles collide with each other, transferring energy from the hotter region to the cooler region.

Front

What is an example of convection?

Back

An example of convection is the heating of water in a pot, where hot water rises and cooler water sinks.

Front

Explain how thermal energy affects the state of matter.

Back

Thermal energy can change the state of matter; for example, adding heat can turn ice (solid) into water (liquid) and then into steam (gas).

Front

What is the role of thermal energy in weather patterns?

Back

Thermal energy drives weather patterns by influencing air movement, temperature changes, and the formation of clouds and precipitation.