Thermal energy, also known as heat energy : is a form of energy that is associated with the temperature of an object. The higher the temperature of the object, the more thermal energy it possesses.

Here are a few activities that illustrate different aspects of thermal energy, including heat transfer, thermal expansion etc

1. Heat Transfer : - Conduction, Convection, and Radiation


Objective:

To demonstrate the three modes of heat transfer: conduction, convection, and radiation.

Materials Needed: Metal spoon, Cup of hot water, Paper cup, Candle, Aluminum foil, Ice cubes.

1. Conduction:
• Place the metal spoon in a cup of hot water. After a minute or two, touch the end of the spoon that is not in the water.


• Discuss how the heat from the hot water is transferred to the metal spoon through conduction.



2. Convection:



• Fill a paper cup with water and add a few drops of food coloring. Place an ice cube in the center of the cup.


• Observe the movement of the colored water as it cools and sinks, showing convection currents.


• Alternatively, you can use a hairdryer to blow warm air over the surface of the water and observe the movement.



3. Radiation :



• Light a candle and hold your hand near (but not too close to) the flame. Feel the warmth on your hand.


• Wrap a piece of aluminum foil around another candle and compare the heat felt with and without the foil. Discuss how radiation transfers heat.



2. Thermal Expansion

Objective : To illustrate the concept of thermal expansion.

Materials Needed : Metal ball and ring apparatus ,Bunsen burner or candle,Ice water

• Initial Observation :
• Pass the metal ball through the ring to show that it fits at room temperature.


• Heating the Ball
• Heat the metal ball using a Bunsen burner or candle for a few minutes.


• Try to pass the heated ball through the ring again. Observe that the ball no longer fits due to thermal expansion.
• Cooling the Ball:
Place the heated ball in ice water for a few minutes.


• Try to pass the ball through the ring again. Observe that it fits once more after cooling.