Difference between heat and temperature
Heat and temperature are related but distinct concepts in physics. Here's the difference:
1. Definition:
- Heat: Heat is the energy transferred between two objects or systems due to the difference in their temperatures. It is a form of energy associated with the motion of atoms and molecules.
- Temperature: Temperature is a measure of the hotness or coldness of an object or system. It quantifies the average kinetic energy of the particles within the object or system.
2. Nature:
- Heat: Heat is a form of energy that flows from a higher temperature region to a lower temperature region until thermal equilibrium is reached.
- Temperature: Temperature is a scalar quantity that represents the thermal state of an object or system. It indicates the direction in which heat will flow.
3. Units:
- Heat: Heat is measured in joules (J) in the International System of Units (SI).
- Temperature: Temperature is measured in degrees Celsius (°C) or Kelvin (K).
4. Measurement:
- Heat: Heat is measured using calorimetry, which involves measuring the change in temperature of a substance when it absorbs or releases energy.
- Temperature: Temperature can be measured using various devices, including thermometers, which are typically based on the expansion or contraction of a liquid or a gas with changes in temperature.
5. Transfer:
- Heat: Heat is transferred from a region of higher temperature to a region of lower temperature through three mechanisms: conduction, convection, and radiation.
- Temperature: Temperature itself does not transfer, but the heat energy associated with it can transfer between objects.
In summary, heat is the energy transferred due to temperature differences, while temperature measures the average kinetic energy of the particles within an object or system.