AQA GCSE Physics: Internal Energy and Heat

In this deck, we'll explore what happens to the particles inside a substance when you heat it. We'll define internal energy, and look at two key concepts: specific heat capacity, which relates to temperature change, and specific latent heat, which is all about changing state.

First, let's define internal energy. The particles, which are atoms and molecules, inside any substance are constantly moving and have forces between them. Internal energy is simply the total energy that its particles have in their kinetic and potential energy stores. The kinetic energy is due to their movement, and the potential energy is due to the bonds and forces between them.