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Internal Energy

Definition

Internal energy refers to the total amount of kinetic and potential energies possessed by all molecules within a substance. It includes both microscopic motion (kinetic) and forces between molecules (potential).

Related terms

Temperature: Temperature is a measure of average kinetic energy within a substance. It indicates how fast molecules are moving on average.

Thermal Equilibrium: Thermal equilibrium occurs when two objects or systems reach the same temperature and there is no net flow of thermal energy between them.

Specific Heat Capacity: Specific heat capacity is the amount of heat energy required to raise the temperature of a substance by a certain amount. It is a property that depends on the type of material.

"Internal Energy" appears in:

Subjects (2)

  • AP Chemistry

  • AP Physics 1

Additional resources (2)

  • AP Physics 2 - 2022 AP Physics 2 Exam Guide

  • AP Physics 2 - Unit 2 Overview: Thermodynamics

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About Us

About Fiveable

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Careers

Code of Conduct

Terms of Use

Privacy Policy

CCPA Privacy Policy

Resources

Cram Mode

AP Score Calculators

Study Guides

Practice Quizzes

Glossary

Cram Events

Merch Shop

Crisis Text Line

Help Center

© 2024 Fiveable Inc. All rights reserved.

AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.