Chapter 3: Thermodynamics

These vocabulary flashcards cover basic thermodynamics principles including heat transfer methods, temperature measurement systems, and the definitions of sensible and latent heat.

Thermodynamics

A branch of physics concerned with heat and temperature and their relation to other forms of energy.

Temperature

A measure of the amount of energy involved in the microscopic movement of a substance's molecules and electrons.

SI

The internationally accepted metric system, standing for ‘système internationale’, which measures temperature in Celsius degrees.

Freezing Point of Water (Metric)

$$0^{\circ}C$$

Boiling Point of Water (Metric)

$$100^{\circ}C$$

Freezing Point of Water (Imperial)

$$32^{\circ}F$$

Boiling Point of Water (Imperial)

$$212^{\circ}F$$

Convection

Heat transfer by the motion of a fluid such as air or water, where heated fluid moves away from the source carrying energy.

Forced Convection

The transfer of heat by circulation or movement of heated parts using a fan, pump, or other external means.

Conduction

Heat transfer by means of the motion or agitation of molecules or electrons within a material, without any bulk motion of the material as a whole.

Temperature Gradient

The temperature difference divided by the distance over which it exists, which affects the rate of heat transferred by conduction.

Thermal Conductivity

The ability of a substance to transfer heat by conduction.

British Thermal Unit (BTU)

The amount of heat required to raise one pound of water one-degree F, which is equal to $353$ calories.

Thermal Radiation

A process in which heat energy is transferred by electromagnetic waves similar to light waves.

Thermal Resistance (R-value)

The quantified capacity of a substance to resist heat transfer; higher values signify better insulation.

Sensible Heat

The energy involved in the movement of molecules that can be sensed and typically measured through a thermometer.

Latent Heat

The energy needed to make a substance change to a different state (phase) without a change of temperature.

Boiling Point Relationship

The thermodynamic principle stating that the higher the pressure, the higher the boiling point.