Module 5 - Thermal Physics (Temperature)

Question 1

What is meant by thermal equilibrium

Answer 1

When two objects in contact have no net flow of thermal energy between them.

Question 2

What are the conditions for thermal equilibrium

Answer 2

• Same temperature
• In contact

Question 3

What is meant by Absolute Zero

Answer 3

The temperature point at which atoms have no energy

Question 4

What is the equation for temperature in Kelvin

Answer 4

K = C +273

Question 5

What is the difference between Heat energy and Temperature

Answer 5

Temperature is the average kinetic energy of the particles in a system, however heat energy is the quantity of thermal energy each particle of the system has

Question 6

Explain what happens when 2 identical ice blocks are placed on wood and metal of the same dimensions and temperature

Answer 6

• The ice will melt quicker on the metal

Question 7

Explain why ice will melt quicker on the metal, when 2 identical ice blocks are placed on wood and metal of the same dimensions and temperature

Answer 7

Metal is a better conductor of heat than water meaning it allows heat to pass through it easily and more efficiently than wood

Question 8

Explain why metal is a good conductor of heat

Answer 8

• It has free moving electrons and a lattice like structure that allows the heat carrying electrons to flow easily through the material

Question 9

Explain why air is a bad conductor

Answer 9

Air is made up of different particles in a gas state meaning that the particles aren’t near enough to each other to allow them to transfer heat.