Thermal Energy Transfer Concepts

Flashcards covering the key vocabulary and concepts related to the modes of thermal energy transfer, their definitions, and effects.

Conduction

Transfer of heat through solids without actual movement of matter.

Convection

Transfer of heat through fluids (liquids and gases) facilitated by differences in density.

Radiation

Transfer of heat energy through a vacuum as infrared radiation.

Conductors

Materials that allow heat energy to flow through them easily, e.g., metals.

Insulators

Materials that do not allow heat energy to flow through them easily, e.g., plastics, wood.

Convection Currents

Movement of fluid caused by differences in temperature and density.

Expansion

The increase in volume of a substance when it is heated.

Evaporation

The process by which a liquid turns into a gas, leading to cooling.

Effects of Heat on Solids

Particles vibrate vigorously about fixed positions when heated, causing expansion.

Effects of Heat on Liquids

Particles gain kinetic energy and move around at high speeds when heated, causing expansion.

Effects of Heat on Gases

Particles move quickly and spread apart when heated, causing the greatest expansion among the three states.

Good radiators

Materials that have dull black or dark blue surfaces, allowing for effective heat transfer.

Poor radiators

Materials that have shiny smooth surfaces, resulting in ineffective heat transfer.