All Flashcards
What is Thermal Contact?
When two systems can exchange energy through thermal processes.
Define Heating in thermal physics.
Energy entering a system via thermal processes.
Define Cooling in thermal physics.
Energy leaving a system via thermal processes.
What is Thermal Equilibrium?
When two systems reach the same temperature, and there's no more net energy transfer.
What is Thermal Conductivity (k)?
A material's ability to conduct heat. High 'k' means heat moves easily; low 'k' means it doesn't.
What is Thermal Expansion?
Materials tend to change size when their temperature changes. Most things get bigger when heated and smaller when cooled.
Define Linear Thermal Expansion.
How much a material changes in length due to a change in temperature.
Define Volumetric Thermal Expansion.
How much a material changes in volume due to a change in temperature.
Compare and contrast high and low thermal conductivity materials.
High Thermal Conductivity: Heat transfer superstars, used in pots and pans. | Low Thermal Conductivity: Heat transfer blockers, used in cups and building insulation.
Differentiate between linear and volumetric thermal expansion.
Linear Expansion: Change in length. | Volumetric Expansion: Change in volume.
What is the effect of increasing the temperature of a metal rod?
The metal rod will undergo thermal expansion, increasing in length and volume.
What happens when two objects at different temperatures are placed in thermal contact?
Energy flows from the hotter object to the cooler object until they reach thermal equilibrium.
What is the effect of high thermal conductivity in a material used for cooking?
The material will quickly and evenly spread heat, allowing for efficient cooking.
What is the effect of low thermal conductivity in building insulation?
It slows down heat transfer, keeping heat in during winter and out during summer.