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AP Physics — Thermodynamics

Heat, energy, and the laws of thermodynamics

T
thermo_grind 15 terms Feb 1, 2026
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Terms 15

1
Temperature
Measure of average kinetic energy of particles in a substance
2
Heat
Thermal energy transferred between objects due to temperature difference
3
Thermal Equilibrium
State when two objects reach the same temperature; no net heat flow
4
Zeroth Law
If A is in equilibrium with B and B with C, then A is in equilibrium with C
5
First Law of Thermodynamics
Energy is conserved: ΔU = Q − W; internal energy equals heat added minus work done
6
Second Law of Thermodynamics
Entropy of an isolated system always increases; heat flows from hot to cold
7
Third Law of Thermodynamics
As temperature approaches absolute zero, entropy approaches a minimum
8
Entropy
Measure of disorder or randomness in a system; symbol S
9
Conduction
Heat transfer through direct contact between materials
10
Convection
Heat transfer through movement of fluid (liquid or gas)
11
Radiation
Heat transfer via electromagnetic waves; requires no medium
12
Specific Heat Capacity
Energy required to raise 1 kg of substance by 1°C; Q = mcΔT
13
Heat Engine
Device converting thermal energy to mechanical work; limited by Carnot efficiency
14
Carnot Engine
Idealized most efficient heat engine; efficiency = 1 − Tc/Th
15
Absolute Zero
0 K (−273.15°C); temperature at which particle motion is at minimum