Thermal Energy Flashcards
Thermal Energy
The total kinetic energy that an object atoms or molecules possess
Energy of moving atoms and molecules
Heat
Temperature
Average kinetic energy that an object’s molecules possess
calorie
Amount of energy needed to raise 1 g of water 1°C
Calorie
1000 calories (kilocalorie)
Thermal capacity/specific heat
The ability of a substance to store or absorb heat
Conduction
The transfer of heat by the collision of particles
Thermal Equilibrium
When two objects have reached the same temperature and no heat transfer is taking place
Thermal Conductor
Material that easily conducts heat
Thermal Insulator
Material that does not easily conduct heat
Heat of fusion
Energy required to melt a substance
Heat of vaporization 
Energy required to turn a liquid into a gas
Convection
Transferring heat through currants
Thermal Radiation
Transferring of heat through electromagnetic waves
Infrared Radiation
Electromagnetic waves with frequencies between microwaves and visible light
