Thermal Physics Summary

• Kelvin scale: Absolute zero at -273°C (0 K); all gas pressure ceases to exist.

Thermal Capacity

• Thermal capacity is the energy needed to raise the temperature of a body.

• Specific heat capacity: energy required to raise 1 kg by 1°C (E = mcΔT).

Change of State

• Matter changes state (e.g., boiling or melting) due to heating/cooling.

• Boiling point: liquid becomes vapor; freezing point: liquid becomes solid.

Heat Transfer Methods

• Conduction: Energy transfer through particle collisions.

• Metals conduct heat better due to free electrons; non-metals transfer heat through vibrations.

• Convection: Fluid circulation transfers heat efficiently; cooler fluid sinks while warmer fluid rises.

• Real-world examples include heating systems and ocean currents.

• Radiation: All objects emit infrared radiation; hotter objects emit more.

• Dark, matte surfaces are better emitters/absorbers than shiny, light ones.

Greenhouse Effect

• Greenhouse gases trap infrared radiation, warming the Earth and contributing to climate change.