Cooling Curves

Definition

A cooling curve is a line graph that represents the change of phase of matter, typically from a gas to a solid or a liquid to a solid. It shows how the temperature changes as a substance is cooled down.

Related terms

Phase Change:

This is when substances transition between solid, liquid, and gas states. It's like moving from one floor to another in our staircase analogy.

Thermal Equilibrium:

This refers to when all parts of a system are at the same temperature. It's like everyone on one floor of our staircase being at the same level.

Endothermic Process:

This is when heat energy is absorbed from surroundings during a chemical reaction. Imagine having to exert more effort (absorb more energy) to climb up the stairs.