Transfer of Thermal Energy and Its Effects

Flashcards covering the transfer of thermal energy, factors affecting conduction, and radiation.

Thermal Conductor

A material that allows heat to pass through it easily; solids are the best, with metals exhibiting exceptional conductive properties.

Thermal Insulator

A material that does not easily allow heat to pass through it; also known as a poor conductor. Gases are the poorest thermal conductors.

Rate of Conduction

The speed at which heat is transferred through a material, affected by the material's properties. For example, copper is a better conductor than wood.

Factors Affecting Rate of Radiation

Surface colour, surface area, surface texture and surface temperature of an object.

Surface Colour & Radiation

Black-coloured surfaces are better radiators and absorbers of heat compared to white-coloured surfaces.

Surface Area & Radiation

A larger surface area results in a higher rate of radiation (if hotter than surroundings) or absorption (if cooler than surroundings).

Surface Texture & Radiation

Rough/matt surfaces have a higher rate of radiation/absorption, while smooth/polished surfaces have a lower rate of radiation/absorption.

Surface Temperature & Radiation

A higher surface temperature results in a higher rate of radiation compared to an object with a lower surface temperature.