IGCSE Physics: Thermal Physics Complete Solutions
1. Brownian Motion
- Description: Molecules move randomly due to collisions with other gas molecules. Small molecules
move faster and have higher energy, aiding in moving larger particles. Visible in smoke particles.
2. Evaporation
- Description: Constant escape of more energetic particles from the surface of liquids.
3. States of Matter (Solid, Liquid, Gas)
- Characteristics:
- Solid: Molecules are tightly packed in fixed positions.
- Liquid: Molecules are close together but can move past each other.
- Gas: Molecules are spread out and move freely.
, 4. Liquid in Glass Thermometer
- Operation: Uses expansion and contraction of liquid (mercury or alcohol) with temperature changes.
Expansion correlates with temperature on a scale.
5. Thermistor Thermometer
- Operation: Contains a semiconductor material that becomes a better electrical conductor with
temperature increase. Higher temperature leads to increased current flow from a battery, resulting in a
higher meter reading.
6. Thermocouple Thermometer
- Operation: Uses two different metals to create junctions. Temperature difference generates a small
voltage, causing current flow. Suitable for high temperature ranges (-200°C to 1100°C).
7. Fixed Points
1. Brownian Motion
- Description: Molecules move randomly due to collisions with other gas molecules. Small molecules
move faster and have higher energy, aiding in moving larger particles. Visible in smoke particles.
2. Evaporation
- Description: Constant escape of more energetic particles from the surface of liquids.
3. States of Matter (Solid, Liquid, Gas)
- Characteristics:
- Solid: Molecules are tightly packed in fixed positions.
- Liquid: Molecules are close together but can move past each other.
- Gas: Molecules are spread out and move freely.
, 4. Liquid in Glass Thermometer
- Operation: Uses expansion and contraction of liquid (mercury or alcohol) with temperature changes.
Expansion correlates with temperature on a scale.
5. Thermistor Thermometer
- Operation: Contains a semiconductor material that becomes a better electrical conductor with
temperature increase. Higher temperature leads to increased current flow from a battery, resulting in a
higher meter reading.
6. Thermocouple Thermometer
- Operation: Uses two different metals to create junctions. Temperature difference generates a small
voltage, causing current flow. Suitable for high temperature ranges (-200°C to 1100°C).
7. Fixed Points
