Heat, Magnetism, and Space Basics
Key definitions, rules, and calculations for thermal transfer, magnetism, and astronomy.
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Questions Covered in This Set
12 cards to master
Temperature vs. thermal energy
Temperature = average kinetic energy of particles (°C or K); thermal energy = TOTAL energy of all particles, so it depends on the amount of substance.
Conduction
Energy passed particle-to-particle by direct contact. Metals conduct well because of delocalised electrons; gases are poor conductors.
Convection
Occurs only in fluids: heated fluid expands, becomes less dense and rises, cooler fluid sinks — forming a convection current.
Radiation
Transfer by infrared electromagnetic waves; needs no medium. Matt black = best emitter/absorber; shiny silver = poor emitter, good reflector.
Why does a vacuum flask keep a drink hot?
The vacuum stops conduction and convection (no particles), silvered surfaces reflect infrared radiation back, and the plastic stopper insulates and stops evaporation.
Specific heat capacity equation
E = m c Δθ — energy (J) = mass (kg) × specific heat capacity (J/kg°C) × temperature change (°C).
Calculate: heating 2.0 kg of water (c = 4200) from 20 °C to 70 °C
E = 2.0 × 4200 × 50 = 420 000 J = 420 kJ.
Permanent vs. induced magnet
A permanent magnet makes its own field; an induced magnet is only magnetic in a field and always experiences attraction.
Right-hand grip rule
Thumb points along the conventional current in a wire; curled fingers show the circular magnetic field direction.
Three ways to strengthen an electromagnet
Increase the current, add more turns of wire, and add an iron core.
Magnetic field lines: key rules
Run from north to south outside the magnet, closest together where the field is strongest (poles), and never cross.
Motor effect
A current-carrying wire in a magnetic field feels a force, F = BIL — the basis of electric motors and loudspeakers.
