K326 / K327 / 2027

Chapter 8

Thermal processes

Temperature differences cause net energy transfer by heating.

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  1. Heating and conduction

    Explain thermal equilibrium and conduction through particles and mobile electrons.

  2. Convection in fluids

    Connect heating, density differences and bulk fluid movement.

  3. Thermal radiation

    Explain transfer across a vacuum and compare surface finish, temperature and area.

  4. Controlling thermal transfer

    Explain flask and cooling designs and plan a fair thermal comparison.

Syllabus coverage

This chapter covers Thermal processes, topic 8(a-e), in the K326 / K327 syllabus (2027) and 5086 / 5087 (2026).

Explain how thermal energy transfers and how a design can increase or reduce the transfer.

Includes thermal equilibrium, particle explanations, radiation factors and controlled comparisons.

View the learning outcomes
8(a)
Explain net thermal transfer from hotter to colder regions and thermal equilibrium. Heating and conduction
8(b)
Explain conduction in solids using particle vibration and, in metals, mobile electrons. Heating and conduction
8(c)
Explain convection in fluids using density changes and bulk movement. Convection in fluids
8(d)
Explain transfer without a material medium and how surface colour and texture, temperature and area affect radiative energy transfer to or from a body. Thermal radiation
8(e)
Apply conduction, convection and radiation to everyday situations and designs. Heating and conductionConvection in fluidsThermal radiationControlling thermal transfer