Difference Between Heat and Temperature

Heat and temperature are closely related but fundamentally different physical quantities. Knowing the distinction helps you understand how energy transfers in daily life and in science. This page explains both concepts with clear definitions, real-life examples, a direct comparison chart, and expert FAQs for exams and interviews.

What is Heat?

Heat (Q) is the total energy of all the molecular motion inside a substance. It depends on the speed of the particles, the number of particles, and their type. Heat flows from a hotter object to a colder one.

• SI Unit: Joule (J)
• Other Units: Calorie (cal)
• Symbol: Q

What is Temperature?

Temperature (T) is a measure of the average kinetic energy of the molecules in a substance. It tells us how hot or cold something is and determines the direction of heat flow.

• SI Unit: Kelvin (K)
• Other Units: Celsius (°C), Fahrenheit (°F)
• Symbol: T

Heat vs Temperature: Comparison Table

Key Points to Remember

• Heat is a form of energy; temperature is a measure of how hot or cold a substance is.
• Heat depends on mass, temperature does not.
• During phase change (melting, boiling), heat is absorbed or released but temperature remains constant (latent heat).
• Temperature is directly related to the average kinetic energy of particles.
• Heat always flows from a higher temperature object to a lower temperature object.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Heat and Temperature

1. What is the main difference between heat and temperature?
   Heat is the total energy of molecular motion, while temperature measures the average kinetic energy of the molecules.
2. Why can two objects at the same temperature have different heat?
   Because heat depends on the mass and number of particles; a large mass can store more heat even at the same temperature.
3. What is the SI unit of heat and temperature?
   Heat: Joule (J); Temperature: Kelvin (K)
4. Can temperature increase without adding heat?
   Yes, by compressing a gas (work done on it), temperature increases without adding heat.
5. Does adding heat always increase temperature?
   No. During phase change (like boiling or melting), heat changes the state, not the temperature.
6. How is heat transferred?
   By conduction, convection, and radiation.
7. Why does ice at 0°C and water at 0°C have different heat?
   Water at 0°C contains more energy because it has absorbed latent heat to change state from solid to liquid.
8. How are heat and temperature related to kinetic energy?
   Temperature measures the average kinetic energy of molecules. Heat is the total kinetic (and potential) energy.
9. What determines the direction of heat flow?
   Heat always flows from higher temperature to lower temperature until equilibrium is reached.
10. Is it possible to have negative temperature or heat?
    Temperature in Kelvin cannot be negative. Heat can be lost (negative heat change) but is always a form of energy.
11. Which instruments measure heat and temperature?
    Temperature: Thermometer; Heat (energy transfer): Calorimeter.
12. Why do metals feel colder than wood at the same temperature?
    Metals conduct heat away from your skin faster due to higher thermal conductivity, making them feel colder.

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