From one object to another due to a temperature difference between them
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Heat energy travels from an object with a high temperature to an object with a low temperature in order to achieve thermal equilibrium. This transfer of heat occurs through conduction, convection, or radiation depending on the specific scenario.
A substance that cools off quickly has a low specific heat capacity. This means that it requires less energy to cool down compared to a substance with a high specific heat capacity, which takes longer to cool off as it can hold more heat energy.
Heat energy is considered low grade because it is diffuse and difficult to convert into useful work with high efficiency. Work, on the other hand, is considered high grade because it is organized and can be easily directed to perform specific tasks with minimal waste. This distinction is based on the Second Law of Thermodynamics, which states that energy tends to disperse and degrade over time.
Heat can transfer through matter by conduction, convection, or radiation. In conduction, heat is transferred through direct contact between the particles of matter. Convection involves the transfer of heat through the movement of fluids such as air or water. Radiation emits electromagnetic waves that carry heat energy through space.
A high specific heat for water means that it can absorb a lot of heat energy before its temperature increases significantly, so it heats slowly. Conversely, it also loses heat slowly because it releases a significant amount of energy to lower its temperature.
Heat and cold air.