Temperature and Thermal Physics

What the resources cover

The unit spans the core ideas of heat and temperature. The mind map Specific Heat Capacity explains why materials that need lots of energy to warm up also release lots when cooling. Heating and Cooling covers changes of state, including condensation and freezing. For gases, Chapter 15- Ideal gases is a mind map that lists the assumptions behind the ideal gas model. Another mind map, Chapter 14- Thermal physics, covers the triple point and thermal equilibrium.

Where to start

Begin with the basics, then build up in this order:

1. Open Heat and Temperature or Temperature to fix the difference between the two ideas.
2. Move to heat transfer with the IGCSE Physics Heat Transfer slides, which set out radiation, conduction and convection.
3. Look at energy and materials with Specific heat capacity (required practical), which links the decrease of one energy store to a temperature rise.
4. Finish with gases and thermodynamics, using the ideal gas mind maps and Thermodynamics Flash Cards.

Using quizzes and maps together

Read a mind map first, then test yourself. The 0654 P3 Thermal Physics Quiz asks how a heated liquid's density changes and how energy moves through it. MCAT Physics: Thermodynamics asks about the zeroth law and heat flow. Wrong answers show you which map to reopen. Flashcard decks such as Temperature & Heat: Latent Heat then help you lock in the definitions.

Where this unit sits

This unit belongs to the Matter and Thermal Physics strand of Physics. The listed resources mention GCSE Physics, IGCSE Physics, A-level Physics, IB Physics and Leaving Certificate Physics, so you can match them to your own course.

Choose one subtopic today, work through its map and quiz, and see what you still need to revisit.