Learn: Thermal Physics

Welcome!Today we'll explore Thermal Physics, a fascinating topic that helps us understand energy transfer, temperature changes, and the behaviour of particles in matter. Let's dive in step by step!

What is Thermal Physics?Thermal Physics studies heat, temperature, and their effects on matter. It explains how energy is transferred between objects and how this affects their motion, temperature, and physical state.

Specific Heat CapacitySpecific heat capacity is the amount of heat energy required to raise the temperature of 1 kg of a substance by 1°C. It depends on the material and is measured in joules per kilogram per degree Celsius (J/kg°C).

Latent HeatLatent heat is the energy required to change the state of a substance without changing its temperature. There are two types: latent heat of fusion (for melting/freezing) and latent heat of vaporisation (for boiling/condensation).

Internal EnergyInternal energy is the total energy of all particles in a substance due to their random motion and interactions. It has two components: kinetic energy (due to movement) and potential energy (due to particle positions).

Ideal Gas EquationThe ideal gas equation relates pressure, volume, temperature, and the number of gas particles. It is written as: pV = nRT, where p is pressure, V is volume, n is the number of moles, R is the gas constant, and T is temperature in Kelvin.

Heat TransferHeat can be transferred in three ways: conduction (direct contact), convection (movement of fluids), and radiation (energy transfer through electromagnetic waves). These processes help explain how heat moves through different materials.

Review Time!Well done! You now understand specific heat capacity, latent heat, internal energy, the ideal gas equation, and heat transfer methods. Let's test your knowledge with a few questions.