Physics ch 1 notes

Heat (Q)

A form of energy that flows from a body at a higher temperature to a lower temperature due to a temperature difference.

Specific Heat Capacity (c)

The amount of heat energy required to raise the temperature of 1 kg mass of a substance by 1 K (or 1°C).

Heat Capacity

The amount of heat energy required to raise the temperature of a whole body by 1 K (or 1°C).

Conduction

The transfer of heat through a material medium without the actual physical movement of the particles.

Convection

The transfer of heat from one place to another by the actual physical movement of fluid particles (liquids and gases).

Radiation

The transfer of heat energy by electromagnetic waves without requiring any material medium.

Greenhouse Effect

Trapping of Earth's outgoing infrared heat by atmospheric gases.

Geothermal Energy

Heat energy generated and stored deep within the Earth's interior (crust and mantle).

High Specific Heat Capacity of Water

Water can absorb or lose a large amount of heat with only a small change in its temperature, approximately 4200 J kg^{-1} K^{-1}.

Vacuum Flask (Thermos Flask)

Designed to keep liquids hot or cold by reducing heat transfer through conduction, convection, and radiation.

Conduction

Heat transfer through solid materials by particle vibration and free electron flow without bulk motion of the material.

Convection Currents

Continuous cycle of heated fluid expanding, becoming less dense, and rising, while cooler fluid sinks to create a current.

Natural Greenhouse Effect

Without this effect, Earth's average temperature would be around -18°C, too cold to support life.

Enhanced Greenhouse Effect

Increased greenhouse gases from human activities leading to global warming.

Thermal Conductors

Materials that conduct heat easily and quickly (e.g., Copper, Aluminum, Silver).

Thermal Insulators

Materials that conduct heat very poorly (e.g., Wood, Glass, Air, Rubber, Plastic).