What is thermal energy?

Thermal energy refers to the internal energy present in a system due to the temperature of its particles. It is directly related to the temperature—when the temperature of a substance increases, its thermal energy also increases. This concept arises from the movement of particles; as the particles in a substance move faster (due to increased thermal motion), the thermal energy increases.

This understanding is fundamental in various fields, including thermodynamics, physics, and engineering, as it lays the groundwork for concepts such as heat transfer and the efficiency of engines. The relationship between temperature and thermal energy is a cornerstone of understanding how energy behaves in different states of matter and forms the basis for numerous applications, from cooking to heating systems and beyond.

This explanation underscores why the notion that thermal energy increases as temperature increases is key to understanding thermal processes and energy exchange.