Thermal energy
Definition
Thermal energy refers to the internal energy of an object due to the random motion of its particles. It is related to temperature and can be transferred through conduction, convection, or radiation.
Analogy
Think of thermal energy as a group of people dancing energetically at a party. The more people there are (higher temperature), and the faster they dance (increased particle motion), the greater their collective thermal energy.
Related terms
Heat transfer: The movement of thermal energy from one object or system to another.
Specific heat capacity: The amount of heat required to raise the temperature of a substance by a certain amount.
Thermodynamics: The study of how thermal energy relates to work, heat transfer, and changes in properties.
"Thermal energy" appears in:
Resources
© 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.