The Science of Everything Podcast

Episode 6: Thermodynamics

Nov 21, 2010
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INSIGHT

Difference Between Temperature and Heat

  • Temperature is the average kinetic energy of the molecules in a substance, not just how hot it feels.
  • Heat is the flow of energy between objects due to temperature differences, distinct from temperature itself.
INSIGHT

Heat Capacity and Specific Heat Explained

  • Heat capacity depends on both material and quantity; specific heat is energy needed to raise temperature by 1°C.
  • Higher specific heat means more energy goes into forms not increasing temperature, like molecular rotation.
ANECDOTE

Why You Can Walk on Hot Coals

  • Walking on hot coals is possible because coals have low heat capacity and poor conductivity.
  • The small amount of hot coals transfers minimal heat to feet, especially with sweat protection and brief contact.
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