Thermal Energy Flashcards
the energy of molecules in motion
thermal energy
the transfer of thermal energy
heat
a measure of the amount of thermal energy in a location
temperature
a tool that measures temperature
thermometer
a material that slows down the rate of thermal energy transfer
insulator
examples of thermal insulators
wool, air, plastic, wood, styrofoam
a material that allows thermal energy to transfer through it easily
conductor
an example of a thermal conductor
metal
How does heat transfer from one object to another?
It always travels from “where it is to where it ain’t.” (Warm to cold.)
What are the three methods of thermal energy transfer?
conduction, radiation, and convection
Which method of thermal energy transfer occurs when objects touch? It is how it travels through solids.
conduction
Which method of thermal energy transfer occurs through empty space?
radiation
Which method of thermal energy transfer occurs because of density differences in liquids and gases?
convection
Explain how fluids move when thermal energy moves by convection.
Warm fluids rise and cool fluids sink.
What happens when dark objects absorb radiation such as sunlight?
It is turned into thermal energy.
What kinds of materials reflect radiation, and what kinds absorb it?
Light and shiny materials reflect radiation. Dark materials absorb it.
