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2.3 Transfer of thermal energy

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Question 19

Which of the following processes explains why metals conduct thermal energy much faster than non-metals?

A

Delocalised (free) electrons gain kinetic energy and diffuse rapidly through the metal lattice, colliding with distant ions.

B

Ions in the metal lattice expand, allowing convection currents to carry thermal energy from the hot end to the cold end.

C

Metals have a higher density, which prevents the lattice ions from vibrating and losing thermal energy.

D

Infrared radiation passes freely between the widely spaced atoms of a metal.

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2.3 Transfer of thermal energy Questions

  1. IGCSE
  2. /Physics
  3. /2.3 Transfer of thermal energy

301 exam-style questions on CIE IGCSE Physics 2.3 Transfer of thermal energy, covering 2.3.1a Thermal conductors and thermal insulators, 2.3.1b Explaining thermal conduction, 2.3.2 Convection, 2.3.3a Thermal radiation, 2.3.3b Surface colour and texture, 2.3.3c Rate of emission and absorption of radiation, and 2.3.4 Consequences of thermal energy transfer. Each one has a worked solution and a mark scheme showing where the marks go.

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