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Thermal Energy Transfer Worksheet

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Thermal Energy Transfer Worksheet

Read the science notes, then answer each question. For multiple-choice questions, choose the best answer. For the matching task, connect each term to its description.

Energy transfer by waves

One way energy travels is through waves, including infrared waves. Unlike transfer through direct contact or by the movement of fluids, waves can travel through a vacuum, where there are no particles. This is how energy from the Sun reaches Earth. A fire can also warm someone standing nearby without contact. Every object emits energy as waves. In general, hotter objects emit more of this energy than cooler ones. Dark, matt surfaces absorb and emit energy well; light, shiny surfaces are less effective absorbers and emitters.

Choose the best answer

Select one answer for each question.

1.Which process can transfer thermal energy through a vacuum?

Conduction
Convection
Thermal radiation
All three processes

2.Which surface is likely to absorb thermal energy from its surroundings most effectively?

A polished silver tray
A matt black panel
A shiny white tile
A clear glass sheet

3.What carries energy from the Sun through space to Earth?

Moving air
Conduction through solid rock
Electromagnetic waves
Convection in space

4.Which statement about energy emitted by objects is correct?

Only objects hotter than boiling water emit it.
Only objects that glow emit it.
Every object emits some energy.
Cold objects absorb it but never emit it.

5.Two objects are otherwise similar, but one is much hotter. Which usually emits more energy?

The hotter object
The cooler object
They emit exactly the same amount
Neither object emits energy

Short answers and key terms

Use complete sentences where an explanation is requested.

6.Fill in the missing word: This form of energy transfer occurs by electromagnetic .

7.Explain how a person can feel warmth from a fire without touching it.

8.Give two reasons why light-coloured clothing can be useful on a sunny day.

9.A metal spoon is partly immersed in hot water. What method transfers energy along the spoon?

10.Water in a pan is heated from below. As the warmed water rises and cooler water sinks, what method transfers energy through the moving water?

11.A flame heats a pan across a vacuum gap, with no moving gas between them. What method transfers energy from the flame to the pan?

12.Match each term with its description.

Conduction
Convection
Thermal radiation
Absorption
Emission

Energy transfer by electromagnetic waves; it can cross a vacuum
Taking in energy from incoming radiation
Energy transfer by the movement of a fluid, such as a liquid or gas
Energy transfer through a material by particle interactions, without bulk movement of the material
Giving out energy as radiation

13.Explain one way energy from the Sun helps make Earth suitable for life.

14.A matt black mug and a shiny silver mug are placed in sunlight. Which mug is likely to absorb more energy, and why?