Module 11: Temperature and Heat

Module 11: Temperature and Heat

Introduction

All matter comprises atoms and molecules that are constantly jiggling and shaking. By virtue of this motion, the atoms have kinetic energy. This energy is known as thermal energy, and temperature a measure of the average energy of the individual particles and corresponds to what we know as hot and cold. We may not realize that something feels hot because its molecules are jiggling violently, but that is what happening! 

Learning Objectives

Upon completion of this module, students will be able to: 

  • Differentiate between temperature and thermal energy.
  • Explain to what "heat" refers.
  • Differentiate between the different temperature scales.
  • Convert the measurement of temperature from one scale to the other.
  • Explain how temperature, pressure, and volume of gas are related and why the temperature scale used is important in these relationships.
  • Describe the three ways that heat is transferred.
  • Define a calorie and its relationship with a Joule.
  • Solve problems related to heat transfer.
  • Explain when the transfer of heat is important.
  • Explain how matter changes phases.
  • Solve problems involving specific latent heats.
  • Solve problems which include both change of state and temperature changes, using specific heat capacities and specific latent heats.

To Do List

1. Watch the Video Lectures (links below)
2. Complete the Practice Problems (links below)
3. Take the Module 11 Quiz
4. Complete the Exam Practice Problems for Module 11

Lessons

Lesson 11.1 What is Temperature?

Here temperature is defined in terms of the motion of the individual particles, and the difference between temperature and heat explained. The different temperature scales, and how to convert between them, are shown as well has how solids expand with increasing temperature.

Lesson 11.2 How Temperature Affects Gas Properties

The Ideal Gas Law numerates how the pressure, temperature and gas are related. There are plenty of easy-to-set exam questions on this subject.

Lesson 11.3 Heat Transfer and Heat Capacity

Another unit of energy, the calorie (as well as the Calorie!) is explained. Then the three ways of heat transfer, conduction, convection and radiation are discussed and demonstrated. Mathematical examples are shown using the specific heat capacity of water and other substances.

Lesson 11.4 Phase Change and Latent Heat

This lesson concentrates on the transitions between solid, liquid and gas. This is done both qualitatively, and quantitavely, with water being the main example. Further unique properties of water are investigated.

Quiz

Once you have watched the lectures and completed the practice problems, you should demonstrate your understanding by taking the Module 11 Quiz. Be sure to submit the quiz before its deadline.

Coming Up

In the next Module we will learn about Waves and Sound.