items that change from a chemical to thermal energy
There are various items or substances that have the ability to change from a chemical form to thermal energy through a process called combustion. Combustion is a chemical reaction that occurs when a fuel combines with an oxidizing agent (usually oxygen) in the presence of heat, resulting in the production of thermal energy.
Some common examples of items or substances that undergo combustion and convert their chemical energy into thermal energy include:
1. Fossil Fuels: Fossil fuels like coal, oil, and natural gas are hydrocarbon-based substances. When these fuels are burned, the carbon and hydrogen atoms in their molecular structure react with oxygen in the air, releasing a significant amount of heat energy.
2. Biomass: Biomass refers to organic matter such as wood, agricultural waste, and animal dung. When biomass undergoes combustion, the complex molecules in these substances break down and release heat energy.
3. Gasoline: Gasoline, which is commonly used as a fuel in cars and other combustion engines, is a mixture of hydrocarbons. When ignited, gasoline undergoes combustion, producing heat energy that powers the engine.
4. Propane: Propane is a commonly used fuel for heating and cooking. When propane combines with oxygen and is ignited, combustion occurs, generating heat energy.
In all of these examples, the combustion process involves breaking the chemical bonds within the substances and creating new bonds with oxygen, resulting in the release of heat energy. This thermal energy can be harnessed for various purposes, such as heating homes, producing electricity, or powering engines.