Thermal Physics Definitions

Question 1

Define thermal equilibrium

Answer 1

When two objects have no net flow of thermal energy between them and are at the same temperature

Question 2

Define internal energy

Answer 2

The sum of randomly distributed kinetic and potential energies of atoms or molecules within a substance

Question 3

Define absolute zero

Answer 3

-273°C
Where the particles have no kinetic energy.
*They still have electrostatic potential

Question 4

Define specific heat capacity

Answer 4

The energy required per unit mass to change the temperature by 1k

Question 5

Define latent heat capacity

Answer 5

The energy required per unit mass to change the state of a substance when at a constant temperature

Question 6

Define specific latent heat of fusion

Answer 6

The energy required per unit mass to change the phase of a substance from solid to liquid.

Question 7

Define specific latent heat of vapourisation

Answer 7

The energy required per unit mass to change the phase of a substance from liquid to gas