Thermal Energy

Front

What is thermal energy?

Back

Thermal energy is the total energy of all the particles in an object due to their motion and position.

Front

What is kinetic energy?

Back

Kinetic energy is the energy of movement. It is the energy an object has because it is moving.

Front

What is potential energy?

Back

Potential energy is stored energy that has the potential to do work. It is energy based on an object's position.

Front

How do we measure temperature?

Back

Temperature is measured using a thermometer, which indicates how hot or cold something is.

Front

What happens to molecules when they are heated?

Back

When molecules are heated, they move faster and spread apart, increasing the thermal energy of the substance.

Front

Why do bridges have expansion joints?

Back

Bridges have expansion joints to allow for the expansion and contraction of materials due to temperature changes, preventing damage.

Front

What is the relationship between temperature and thermal energy?

Back

Higher temperature means higher thermal energy, as the particles move more rapidly.

Front

What is an example of kinetic energy in everyday life?

Back

Dribbling a basketball is an example of kinetic energy because the ball is in motion.

Front

What is an example of potential energy?

Back

A book on a shelf has potential energy because it has the potential to fall due to gravity.

Front

Which has more thermal energy: a hot cup of tea or a huge lake?

Back

A huge lake has more thermal energy because it contains more water and particles.