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← Physics – Grade 8
CLASS 8 · LEARNING KNOWLEDGE

Heat and internal energy – basic principles

How it works

Heat is energy transferred between bodies due to a difference in temperature. The internal energy of a body includes the kinetic and potential energy of its particles. Temperature is a measure of the average kinetic energy of the particles. Heat transfer can occur by conduction, convection or radiation. When heated, internal energy increases; when cooled, it decreases. A body gives off heat to a colder environment. Changes of state, for example melting or evaporation, are also associated with absorption or release of energy; in doing so, the temperature can remain constant despite further heat input.

Note
Heat is the transfer of energy due to a difference in temperature; in the process, the internal energy of the bodies involved changes.

An example

Which statement best describes what happens to the internal energy of a body when heat is supplied to it?

The internal energy of a body increases when heat is supplied to it because the particles move more strongly or their arrangement changes, for example when melting.

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50 Exercises

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Own explanation and own practice exercises by AmyMath. Subject reference framework: Physics. The topic assignment may vary by federal state.