---
title: "Thermal Equilibrium — AP Chem Definition & Exam Guide"
description: "Thermal equilibrium is when two objects in thermal contact reach the same temperature and average kinetic energy. Core to AP Chem Unit 6 and calorimetry math."
canonical: "https://fiveable.me/ap-chem/key-terms/thermal-equilibrium"
type: "key-term"
subject: "AP Chemistry"
---

# Thermal Equilibrium — AP Chem Definition & Exam Guide

## Definition

A state reached when two objects connected by a path for heat transfer have equal temperatures and there's no net flow of thermal energy between them.

## Related Study Guides

- [6.3 Heat Transfer and Thermal Equilibrium](/ap-chem/unit-6/heat-transfer-thermal-equilibrium/study-guide/WJd1kCvPeSS08sVOaDPt)

## Review

### Related Terms

- [Heat Transfer](/ap-chem/key-terms/heat-transfer): The movement of thermal energy from one thing to another thing of different temperature. Like passing hot gossip around school until everyone knows it!
- Conduction: Heat transfer through direct contact, like when you touch something hot and feel its warmth.
- Convection: Heat transfer through fluid motion, such as boiling water moving around in a pot.