Heat flow (Q)
Definition
Heat flow, represented by Q, is the transfer of thermal energy from one object to another due to a difference in temperature. It is measured in units of joules (J).
Analogy
Think of heat flow like water flowing from one container to another through a pipe. The amount of water that flows represents the amount of heat transferred, and the pressure difference between containers represents the temperature difference driving the flow.
Related terms
Convection: Heat transfer through fluid motion, such as air or liquid currents.
Radiation: Heat transfer through electromagnetic waves, such as sunlight warming up an object.
Specific heat capacity: The amount of heat required to raise the temperature of a substance by 1 degree Celsius.
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